SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-K Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 For the Fiscal Year Ended Commission File December 31, 1998 No. 1-13653 AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. Incorporated under IRS Employer I.D. the Laws of Ohio No. 31-1544320 One East Fourth Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 (513) 579-2121 Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: Name of Each Exchange Title of Each Class on which Registered American Financial Group, Inc.: Common Stock New York Stock Exchange American Financial Capital Trust I (Guaranteed by Registrant): 9-1/8% Trust Originated Preferred Securities New York Stock Exchange Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None Other securities for which reports are submitted pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: 7-1/8% Senior Debentures due December 15, 2007 Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months, and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and need not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [X] As of March 1, 1999, there were 60,978,493 shares of the Registrant's Common Stock outstanding, excluding 18,666,614 shares owned by subsidiaries. The aggregate market value of the Common Stock held by nonaffiliates at that date, was approximately $1.3 billion (based upon nonaffiliate holdings of 35,034,730 shares and a market price of $36.9375 per share.) _____________ Documents Incorporated by Reference: Proxy Statement for the 1999 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (portions of which are incorporated by reference into Part III hereof).
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. INDEX TO ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K Part I Page Item 1 - Business: Introduction 1 Property and Casualty Insurance Operations 2 Annuity and Life Operations 15 Other Companies 19 Investment Portfolio 19 Regulation 21 Item 2 - Properties 22 Item 3 - Legal Proceedings 23 Item 4 - Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders (a) Part II Item 5 - Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters 24 Item 6 - Selected Financial Data 25 Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 26 Item 7A - Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk (b) Item 8 - Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 36 Item 9 - Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure (a) Part III Item 10 - Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant 36 Item 11 - Executive Compensation 36 Item 12 - Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management 36 Item 13 - Certain Relationships and Related Transactions 36 Part IV Item 14 - Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K S-1 (a) The response to this Item is "none". (b) The response to this Item is included in Item 7. Forward-Looking Statements The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 encourages corporations to provide investors with information about the company's anticipated performance and provides protection from liability if future results are not the same as management's expectations. This document, chiefly in Items 1, 3, 5, 7 and 8, contains certain forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions which management believes are reasonable, but by their nature, inherently uncertain. Future results could differ materially from those projected. Factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to: changes in economic conditions especially with regard to availability of and returns on capital, regulatory actions, changes in legal environment, levels of catastrophe and other major losses, availability of reinsurance, the Year 2000 issue, and competitive pressures. AFG undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.
PART I ITEM 1 Business Please refer to "Forward Looking Statements" following the Index in front of this Form 10-K. Introduction American Financial Group, Inc. ("AFG") is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged primarily in private passenger automobile and specialty property and casualty insurance businesses and in the sale of tax-deferred annuities and certain life and supplemental health insurance products. AFG's property and casualty operations originated in the 1800's and is one of the twenty five largest property and casualty groups in the United States based on statutory net premiums written. AFG was incorporated as an Ohio corporation in July 1997. Its address is One East Fourth Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202; its phone number is (513) 579-2121. In December 1997, AFG completed several transactions in furtherance of a plan to reduce corporate expenses and simplify the public company structure of certain subsidiaries (the "AFG Reorganization"). No material change in AFG's financial condition or in the rights of AFG securityholders occurred as a result. AFG's predecessor had been formed in 1994 for the purpose of acquiring American Financial Corporation ("AFC") and American Premier Underwriters, Inc. ("American Premier" or "APU") in merger transactions completed in April 1995 (the "Mergers"). For financial reporting purposes, because the former shareholders of AFC owned more than 50% of AFG following the Mergers, the financial statements of AFG for periods prior to the Mergers are those of AFC. The operations of APU are included in AFG's financial statements from the effective date of the Mergers. At December 31, 1998, Carl H. Lindner, members of his immediate family and trusts for their benefit (collectively the "Lindner Family") beneficially owned approximately 44% of AFG's outstanding voting common stock.
General Generally, companies have been included in AFG's consolidated financial statements when the ownership of voting securities has exceeded 50%; for investments below that level but above 20%, AFG has accounted for the investments as investees. (See Note E to AFG's financial statements.) The following table shows AFG's percentage ownership of voting securities of its significant affiliates over the past several years: Voting Ownership at December 31, 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 American Financial Corporation 79% 79% 76% 79% n/a American Premier Underwriters 100% 100% 100% 100% 42% Great American Insurance Group 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% American Annuity Group 82% 81% 81% 81% 80% American Financial Enterprises 100% 100% 83% 83% 83% Chiquita Brands International 37% 39% 43% 44% 46% Citicasters - - (a) 38% 37% (a) Sold in September 1996. The following summarizes the more significant changes in ownership percentages shown in the above table. American Financial Corporation In April 1995, AFC became a subsidiary of AFG as a result of the Mergers. For financial reporting purposes, AFC is the predecessor to AFG. In the Mergers, holders of AFC preferred stock were granted voting rights equal to approximately 21% of the voting power of all AFC shareholders. American Premier Underwriters In April 1995, APU became a subsidiary of AFG as a result of the Mergers. 1
American Financial Enterprises In December 1997, AFEI became a wholly-owned subsidiary of AFG as a result of a transaction whereby AFG purchased all publicly-held shares of AFEI for cash and AFG Common Stock. Chiquita Brands International During the second half of 1997 and the first half of 1998, Chiquita issued an aggregate of 4.6 million shares and 4.0 million shares of its common stock, respectively, in connection with the purchase of new businesses. Citicasters In 1996, the investment in Citicasters was sold to an unaffiliated company. Property and Casualty Insurance Operations Prior to agreeing in September 1998 to sell substantially all of its Commercial lines division to the Ohio Casualty Corporation, AFG managed and operated its property and casualty business in three major business segments: Nonstandard Automobile Insurance, Specialty lines and Commercial and Personal lines. Following the sale of its Commercial lines division, AFG's property and casualty group is engaged primarily in private passenger automobile and specialty insurance businesses. Accordingly, AFG has realigned its property and casualty group into two major business groups: Personal and Specialty. Each group reports to an individual senior executive and is comprised of multiple business units which operate autonomously but with strong central financial controls and full accountability. Decentralized control allows each unit the autonomy necessary to respond to local and specialty market conditions while capitalizing on the efficiencies of centralized investment, actuarial, financial and legal support functions. AFG's property and casualty insurance operations employ approximately 7,600 persons. In December 1998, AFG completed the sale of the Commercial lines division for approximately $300 million plus warrants to purchase 3 million shares of Ohio Casualty common stock. AFG may receive up to an additional $40 million in the year 2000 based upon the retention and growth of the insurance businesses acquired by Ohio Casualty. The commercial lines sold generated net written premiums of approximately $250 million in 1998 prior to the sale, $315 million in 1997 and $314 million in 1996. In January 1999, AFG agreed to acquire Worldwide Insurance Company (formerly, Providian Auto and Home Insurance Company), from AEGON Insurance Group for approximately $160 million. Worldwide is a provider of direct response private passenger automobile insurance and is licensed in 45 states. The acquisition will provide AFG with a significant new distribution channel for its private passenger auto insurance business and a variety of other insurance products. In 1998, Worldwide generated net written premiums of approximately $121 million. Completion of the transaction is expected to occur in the first half of 1999.
AFG operates in a highly competitive industry that is affected by many factors which can cause significant fluctuations in their results of operations. The property and casualty insurance industry has historically been subject to pricing cycles characterized by periods of intense competition and lower premium rates (a "downcycle") followed by periods of reduced competition, reduced underwriting capacity due to lower policyholders' surplus and higher premium rates (an "upcycle"). The property and casualty insurance industry is currently in an extended downcycle, which has lasted nearly a decade. The primary objective of AFG's property and casualty insurance operations is to achieve underwriting profitability. Underwriting profitability is measured by the combined ratio which is a sum of the ratios of underwriting losses, loss adjustment expenses ("LAE"), underwriting expenses and policyholder dividends to premiums. When the combined ratio is under 100%, underwriting results are generally considered profitable; when the ratio is over 100%, underwriting results are generally considered unprofitable. The combined ratio does not reflect investment income, other income or federal income taxes. 2
Management's focus on underwriting performance has resulted in a statutory combined ratio averaging 103.5% for the period 1994 to 1998, as compared to 105.5% for the property and casualty industry over the same period (Source: "Best's Review/Preview - Property/Casualty" - January 1999 Edition). AFG believes that its product line diversification and underwriting discipline have contributed to the Company's ability to consistently outperform the industry's underwriting results. Management's philosophy is to refrain from writing business that is not expected to produce an underwriting profit even if it is necessary to limit premium growth to do so. Generally, while financial data is reported on a statutory basis for insurance regulatory purposes, it is reported in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") for shareholder and other investment purposes. In general, statutory accounting results in lower capital surplus and net earnings than result from application of GAAP. Major differences include charging policy acquisition costs to expense as incurred rather than spreading the costs over the periods covered by the policies; recording bonds and redeemable preferred stocks primarily at amortized cost; netting of reinsurance recoverables and prepaid reinsurance premiums against the corresponding liability; requiring additional loss reserves; and charging to surplus certain assets, such as furniture and fixtures and agents' balances over 90 days old. Unless indicated otherwise, the financial information presented for the property and casualty insurance operations herein is presented based on GAAP and includes for all periods (i) the insurance operations of AFC and American Premier and (ii) the commercial lines businesses sold up to the sale date. The following table shows (in millions) certain information of AFG's property and casualty insurance operations. 1998 1997 1996 Statutory Basis Premiums Earned $ 2,657 $2,802 $2,821 Admitted Assets 6,463 6,983 6,603 Unearned Premiums 914 1,133 1,104 Loss and LAE Reserves 3,702 3,475 3,397 Capital and Surplus 1,840 1,916 1,659 GAAP Basis Premiums Earned $ 2,699 $2,824 $2,845 Total Assets 10,053 9,212 8,623 Unearned Premiums 1,233 1,329 1,248 Loss and LAE Reserves 4,773 4,225 4,124 Shareholder's Equity 3,174 3,019 2,695
The following table shows the size (in millions), segment and A.M. Best rating of AFG's major property and casualty insurance subsidiaries. AFG continues to focus on growth opportunities in what it believes to be more profitable specialty and private passenger auto businesses which represented the bulk of 1998 net written premiums. Net Written Premiums Company (A.M. Best Rating) Personal Specialty Great American (A) $ 167 $ 995(*) Republic Indemnity (A) - 162 Mid-Continent (A) - 108 National Interstate (A-) - 30 American Empire Surplus Lines (A+) - 17 Atlanta Casualty (A) 348 - Infinity (A) 314 - Windsor (A) 313 - Leader (A-) 137 - $1,279 $1,312 (*) Includes $250 million in premiums written by Great American's Commercial lines division which was sold in 1998. 3
The following table shows the performance of AFG's property and casualty insurance operations (dollars in millions): 1998 1997 1996 Net written premiums $2,609(a) $2,858 $2,788 Net earned premiums $2,699 $2,824 $2,845 Loss and LAE 2,001 2,076 2,052 Special A&E charge 214 - 80 Underwriting expenses 764 783 780 Policyholder dividends 9 7 14 Underwriting loss ($ 289) ($ 42) ($ 81) GAAP ratios: Loss and LAE ratio 82.1% 73.5% 75.0% Underwriting expense ratio 28.3 27.7 27.4 Policyholder dividend ratio .3 .2 .5 Combined ratio (b) 110.7% 101.4% 102.9% Statutory ratios: Loss and LAE ratio 82.7% 73.4% 74.8% Underwriting expense ratio 27.9 27.3 27.2 Policyholder dividend ratio .5 .7 .4 Combined ratio (b) 111.1% 101.4% 102.4% Industry statutory combined ratio (c) 105.0% 101.6% 105.8% (a) Before a reduction of $138 million for unearned premium transfer related to the sale of the Commercial lines division. (b) The 1998 combined ratios include effects of the strengthening of insurance reserves relating to asbestos and other environmental matters ("A&E") of 7.9 percentage points (GAAP) and 8.0 percentage points (statutory); the 1996 combined ratios include A&E increases of 2.8 percentage points. (c) Ratios are derived from "Best's Review/Preview - Property/Casualty" (January 1999 Edition). As with other property and casualty insurers, AFG's operating results can be adversely affected by unpredictable catastrophe losses. Certain natural disasters (hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, forest fires, etc.) and other incidents of major loss (explosions, civil disorder, fires, etc.) are classified as catastrophes by industry associations. Losses from these incidents are usually tracked separately from other business of insurers because of their sizable effects on overall operations. AFG generally seeks to reduce its exposure to such events through individual risk selection and the purchase of reinsurance. Major catastrophes in recent years included midwestern hailstorms and tornadoes and Hurricanes Bonnie and Georges in 1998 and Hurricane Fran in 1996. Total net losses to AFG's insurance operations from catastrophes were $60 million in 1998; $20 million in 1997; and $85 million in 1996. These amounts are included in the tables herein. 4
Personal General The Personal group consists of the nonstandard auto group along with the preferred/standard private passenger auto and other personal insurance business. The nonstandard automobile insurance companies underwrite primarily private passenger automobile liability and physical damage insurance policies for "nonstandard" risks. Nonstandard insureds are those individuals who are unable to obtain insurance through standard market carriers due to factors such as age, record of prior accidents, driving violations, particular occupation or type of vehicle. Premium rates for nonstandard risks are generally higher than for standard risks. Total private passenger automobile insurance net premiums written by insurance carriers in the United States in 1998 have been estimated by A.M. Best to be approximately $120 billion. Because it can be viewed as a residual market, the size of the nonstandard private passenger automobile insurance market changes with the insurance environment and grows when standard coverage becomes more restrictive. When this occurs, the criteria which differentiate standard from nonstandard insurance risks change. The size of the voluntary nonstandard market is also affected by rate levels adopted by state administered involuntary plans. According to A.M. Best, the voluntary nonstandard market has accounted for about one-sixth of total private passenger automobile insurance premiums written in recent years. Other personal insurance business consists primarily of preferred/standard private passenger automobile and homeowners' insurance. AFG's approach is to develop tailored rates for its personal automobile customers based on a variety of factors, including the driving record of the insureds. The approach to homeowners business is to limit exposure in locations which have significant catastrophic potential (such as windstorms, earthquakes and hurricanes). During 1998, AFG had a reinsurance agreement under which 90% of its homeowners' business was reinsured. The Personal group writes business in 48 states and holds licenses to write policies in all states and the District of Columbia. The U.S. geographic distribution of the Personal group's statutory direct written premiums in 1998 compared to 1994, was as follows: 1998 1994 1998 1994 California 14.8% 2.5% Tennessee * % 4.8% Georgia 10.1 9.3 Indiana * 3.3 Connecticut 10.0 7.6 Alabama * 3.3 Florida 9.4 9.7 Ohio * 2.8 New York 6.2 * Mississippi * 2.8 Pennsylvania 5.5 4.8 Oklahoma * 2.7 Texas 5.0 11.5 Washington * 2.5 New Jersey 3.3 2.2 Kentucky * 2.0 North Carolina 2.8 3.0 Virginia * 2.0 Arizona 2.6 4.9 Utah * 2.0 Missouri 2.0 2.4 Other 28.3 13.9 _______________ 100.0% 100.0% (*) less than 2%
Management believes that the Personal group's underwriting success has been due, in part, to the refinement of various risk profiles, thereby dividing the consumer market into more defined segments which can be underwritten or priced properly. The Personal group generally writes policies of short duration which allow more frequent rating evaluations of individual risks, providing management greater flexibility in the ongoing assessment of the business. In addition, the Personal group has implemented cost control measures both in the underwriting and claims handling areas. 5
The following table shows the performance of AFG's Personal group insurance operations (dollars in millions): 1998 1997 1996 Net written premiums $1,279 $1,345 $1,384 Net earned premiums $1,290 $1,357 $1,448 Loss and LAE 958 1,019 1,146 Underwriting expenses 298 318 358 Policyholder dividends - (1) - Underwriting profit (loss) $ 34 $ 21 ($ 56) GAAP ratios: Loss and LAE ratio 74.2% 75.1% 79.1% Underwriting expense ratio 23.1 23.5 24.8 Policyholder dividend ratio - (.1) - Combined ratio 97.3% 98.5% 103.9% Statutory ratios: Loss and LAE ratio 74.3% 75.2% 79.1% Underwriting expense ratio 22.4 22.9 24.5 Combined ratio 96.7% 98.1% 103.6% Industry statutory combined ratio (a) 103.5% 100.1% 103.6% (a) Represents the personal lines industry statutory combined ratio derived from "Best's Review/Preview - Property/Casualty" (January 1999 Edition). Marketing Each of the principal units in the Personal group is responsible for its own marketing, sales, underwriting and claims processing. These units each write policies primarily through several thousand independent agents. The 1999 acquisition of Worldwide will also enable AFG to sell its products through direct marketing channels. The Personal group had approximately 1.1 million policies in force at December 31, 1998, just under 80% of which had policy limits of $50,000 or less per occurrence. Most Personal group policies are written for policy periods of six months or less. Competition A large number of national, regional and local insurers write private passenger automobile and homeowners' insurance coverage. Insurers in this market generally compete on the basis of price (including differentiation on liability limits, variety of coverages offered and deductibles), geographic presence and ease of enrollment and, to a lesser extent, reputation for claims handling, financial stability and customer service. Management believes that sophisticated data analysis for refinement of risk profiles has helped the Personal group to compete successfully. The Personal group attempts to provide selected pricing for a wider spectrum of risks and with a greater variety of payment options, deductibles and limits of liability than are offered by many of its competitors. 6
Specialty General The Specialty group emphasizes the writing of specialized insurance coverage where AFG personnel are experts in particular lines of business or customer groups. The following are examples of such specialty businesses: Executive Liability Markets liability coverage for attorneys and for directors and officers of businesses and nonprofit organizations. Inland and Ocean Marine Provides coverage primarily for marine cargo, boat dealers, marina operators/dealers, excursion vessels, builder's risk, contractor's equipment, excess property and transportation cargo. Japanese division Provides coverage primarily for workers' compensation, commercial auto, umbrella, and general liability of Japanese businesses operating in the U.S. Agricultural-related Provides multi-peril crop insurance covering (allied lines) weather and disease perils as well as coverage for full-time operating farms/ranches and agribusiness operations on a nationwide basis. Workers' Compensation Writes coverage for prescribed benefits payable to employees (principally in California) who are injured on the job. Nonprofit Liability Provides property, general/professional liability, automobile, trustee liability, umbrella and crime coverage for a wide range of nonprofit organizations. General Aviation Provides coverage for corporate and private aircraft and airports. Fidelity and Surety Bonds Provides surety coverage for various types of contractors and public and private corporations and fidelity and crime coverage for government, mercantile and financial institutions. Also, provides export credit coverage and insurance and risk management programs for lending and leasing institutions. Umbrella and Excess Provides large capacity coverage in excess of primary layers.
Specialization is the key element to the underwriting success of these business units. Each unit has independent management with significant operating autonomy to oversee the important operational functions of its business such as underwriting, pricing, marketing, policy processing and claims service. These specialty businesses are opportunistic and their premium volume will vary based on current market conditions. AFG continually evaluates expansion in existing markets and opportunities in new specialty markets. The commercial business sold included certain coverages in workers' compensation, commercial multi-peril, umbrella (including primary and excess layers) and commercial auto. 7
The U.S. geographic distribution of the Specialty group statutory direct written premiums in 1998 (adjusted for the sale of the Commercial lines division) compared to 1994 is shown below. 1998 1994 1998 1994 California 27.4% 35.1% Ohio 2.3% 2.2% Texas 8.4 4.1 New Jersey 2.1 3.8 New York 6.0 8.2 Pennsylvania 2.1 2.7 Massachusetts 4.6 3.4 Michigan * 3.1 Florida 4.6 2.8 North Carolina * 3.0 Illinois 4.0 3.2 Connecticut * 2.4 Oklahoma 3.7 2.9 Other 34.8 23.1 _______________ 100.0% 100.0% (*) less than 2% The following table sets forth a distribution of statutory net written premiums for AFG's Specialty group by NAIC annual statement line for 1998 (adjusted for the sale of the Commercial lines division) compared to 1994. 1998 1994 Other liability 22.2% 15.8% Workers' compensation 17.6 38.5 Inland marine 12.4 5.3 Auto liability 8.7 7.4 Commercial multi-peril 6.4 12.1 Allied lines 5.8 4.5 Fidelity and surety 5.7 2.0 General aviation 5.0 - Auto physical damage 4.7 5.2 Ocean marine 4.0 3.1 Other 7.5 6.1 100.0% 100.0% The following table shows the performance of AFG's Specialty group insurance operations (dollars in millions): 1998 1997 1996 Net written premiums $1,312(a) $1,468 $1,367 Net earned premiums $1,372 $1,429 $1,356 Loss and LAE 979 967 781 Underwriting expenses 451 454 406 Policyholder dividends 9 8 14 Underwriting profit (loss) ($ 67) $ - $ 155 GAAP ratios: Loss and LAE ratio 71.4% 67.6% 57.5% Underwriting expense ratio 32.9 31.8 29.9 Policyholder dividend ratio .7 .6 1.0 Combined ratio (b) 105.0% 100.0% 88.4%
Statutory ratios: Loss and LAE ratio 72.1% 67.6% 57.8% Underwriting expense ratio 34.1 31.5 30.2 Policyholder dividend ratio 1.0 1.4 .9 Combined ratio (b) 107.2% 100.5% 88.9% Industry statutory combined ratio (c) 107.2% 103.7% 108.9% (a) Before a reduction of $138 million for unearned premium transfer related to the sale of the Commercial lines division. (b) The 1996 combined ratios reflect a reduction of 3.0 percentage points attributable to a reallocation of loss reserves in connection with the strengthening of A&E reserves. (c) Represents the commercial industry statutory combined ratio derived from "Best's Review/Preview - Property/Casualty" (January 1999 Edition). 8
Marketing The Specialty group operations direct their sales efforts primarily through independent property and casualty insurance agents and brokers, although portions are written through employee agents. These businesses write insurance through several thousand agents and brokers and have approximately 350,000 policies in force. Competition These businesses compete with other individual insurers, state funds and insurance groups of varying sizes, some of which are mutual insurance companies possessing competitive advantages in that all their profits inure to their policyholders. Because of the specialty nature of these coverages, competition is based primarily on service to policyholders and agents, specific characteristics of products offered and reputation for claims handling. Price, commissions and profit sharing terms are also important factors. Management believes that sophisticated data analysis for refinement of risk profiles, extensive specialized knowledge and loss prevention service have helped AFG's Specialty group compete successfully. Reinsurance Consistent with standard practice of most insurance companies, AFG reinsures a portion of its business with other reinsurance companies and assumes a relatively small amount of business from other insurers. Ceding reinsurance permits diversification of risks and limits the maximum loss arising from large or unusually hazardous risks or catastrophic events. The availability and cost of reinsurance are subject to prevailing market conditions which may affect the volume and profitability of business that is written. AFG is subject to credit risk with respect to its reinsurers, as the ceding of risk to reinsurers does not relieve AFG of its liability to its insureds. Reinsurance is provided on one of two bases, facultative or treaty. Facultative reinsurance is generally provided on a risk by risk basis. Individual risks are ceded and assumed based on an offer and acceptance of risk by each party to the transaction. Treaty reinsurance provides for risks meeting prescribed criteria to be automatically ceded and assumed according to contract provisions. In order to limit the maximum loss arising out of any one occurrence, AFG's insurance companies reinsure a portion of their exposure under treaty and facultative reinsurance programs. The following table presents (by type of coverage) the amount of each loss above the specified retention maximum generally covered by treaty reinsurance programs (in millions): Retention Reinsurance Coverage Maximum Coverage(a) California Workers' Compensation (b) $150.0(c) Other Workers' Compensation $ 1.0 49.0 Commercial Umbrella 1.0 49.0 Other Casualty 5.0 15.0 Property - General 5.0 25.0(d) Property - Catastrophe 10.0 90.0 (a) Reinsurance covers substantial portions of losses in excess of retention. (b) Less than $30,000. (c) In 1998, AFG ceded 30% of its California workers' compensation business through a reinsurance agreement. (d) In 1998 and 1997, AFG ceded 90% and 80% of its homeowners insurance coverage through a reinsurance agreement, respectively.
AFG purchases facultative reinsurance providing coverage on a risk by risk basis, both pro rata and excess of loss, depending on the risk and available reinsurance markets. Due in part to the limited exposure on individual policies, the nonstandard auto group is not materially involved in reinsuring risks with third party insurance companies. Included in the balance sheet caption "recoverables from reinsurers and prepaid reinsurance premiums" were approximately $150 million on paid losses and LAE and $1.5 billion on unpaid losses and LAE at December 31, 1998. The collectibility of a reinsurance balance is based upon the financial condition of a reinsurer as well as 9
individual claim considerations. Market conditions over the past few years have forced many reinsurers into financial difficulties or liquidation proceedings. At December 31, 1998, AFG's insurance subsidiaries had allowances of approximately $92 million for doubtful collection of reinsurance recoverables, most of which related to unpaid losses. AFG regularly monitors the financial strength of its reinsurers. This process periodically results in the transfer of risks to more financially secure reinsurers. Substantially all reinsurance is ceded to reinsurers having more than $100 million in capital and A.M. Best ratings of "A-" or better. AFG's major reinsurers include Reliance Insurance Company, Mitsui Marine and Fire Insurance Company, American Re-Insurance Company, Employers Reinsurance Corporation, NAC Reinsurance Corporation, Transatlantic Reinsurance Company, Vesta Fire Insurance Corporation and Zurich Reinsurance North America, Inc. These companies have assumed nearly half of AFG's ceded reinsurance. Premiums written for reinsurance ceded and assumed are presented in the following table (in millions): 1998 1997 1996 Reinsurance ceded $788(*) $614 $518 Reinsurance assumed - including involuntary pools and associations 37 89 58 (*) Includes approximately $170 million of premiums written by the Commercial lines division that were ceded to Ohio Casualty. Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves The consolidated financial statements include the estimated liability for unpaid losses and LAE of AFG's insurance subsidiaries. This liability represents estimates of the ultimate net cost of all unpaid losses and LAE and is determined by using case-basis evaluations and actuarial projections. These estimates are subject to the effects of changes in claim amounts and frequency and are periodically reviewed and adjusted as additional information becomes known. In accordance with industry practices, such adjustments are reflected in current year operations. Future costs of claims are projected based on historical trends adjusted for changes in underwriting standards, policy provisions, product mix and other factors. Estimating the liability for unpaid losses and LAE is inherently judgmental and is influenced by factors which are subject to significant variation. Through the use of analytical reserve development techniques, management monitors items such as the effect of inflation on medical, hospitalization, material, repair and replacement costs, general economic trends and the legal environment. Although management believes that the reserves currently established reflect a reasonable provision for the ultimate cost of all losses and claims, actual development may vary materially. AFG recognizes underwriting profit only when realization is reasonably determinable and assured. In certain specialty businesses, where experience is limited or where there is potential for volatile results, AFG holds reasonable "incurred but not reported" reserves and does not recognize underwriting profit until the experience matures. Generally, reserves for reinsurance and involuntary pools and associations are reflected in AFG's results at the amounts reported by those entities.
Unless otherwise indicated, the following discussion of insurance reserves includes the reserves of American Premier's subsidiaries for only those periods following the Mergers. See Note N to the Financial Statements for an analysis of changes in AFG's estimated liability for losses and LAE, net and gross of reinsurance, over the past three years on a GAAP basis. 10
The following table presents the development of AFG's liability for losses and LAE, net of reinsurance, on a GAAP basis for the last ten years, excluding reserves of American Premier subsidiaries prior to the Mergers. The top line of the table shows the estimated liability (in millions) for unpaid losses and LAE recorded at the balance sheet date for the indicated years. The second line shows the re-estimated liability as of December 31, 1998. The remainder of the table presents development as percentages of the estimated liability. The development results from additional information and experience in subsequent years. The middle line shows a cumulative deficiency (redundancy) which represents the aggregate percentage increase (decrease) in the liability initially estimated. The lower portion of the table indicates the cumulative amounts paid as of successive periods as a percentage of the original loss reserve liability. <TABLE> <CAPTION> 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses: As originally estimated $2,209 $2,246 $2,137 $2,129 $2,123 $2,113 $2,187 $3,393 $3,404 $3,489 $3,305 As re-estimated at December 31, 1998 2,717 2,771 2,583 2,489 2,412 2,317 2,393 3,526 3,604 3,644 N/A Liability re-estimated (*): One year later 99.8% 100.4% 98.6% 99.3% 99.9% 98.1% 95.9% 98.7% 100.9% 104.5% Two years later 100.0% 99.3% 97.7% 98.7% 98.2% 94.1% 99.3% 98.5% 105.9% Three years later 99.7% 98.4% 97.4% 98.0% 95.2% 97.4% 99.9% 103.9% Four years later 98.7% 98.2% 99.2% 97.3% 100.3% 98.9% 109.4% Five years later 99.1% 101.1% 100.0% 103.0% 102.6% 109.7% Six years later 103.0% 102.7% 106.3% 105.6% 113.6% Seven years later 104.7% 109.2% 109.4% 116.9% Eight years later 111.4% 112.2% 120.9% Nine years later 114.5% 123.4% Ten years later 123.0% Cumulative deficiency (redundancy) 23.0% 23.4% 20.9% 16.9% 13.6% 9.7% 9.4% 3.9% 5.9% 4.5% N/A Cumulative paid as of: One year later 29.4% 32.3% 26.1% 26.4% 26.7% 25.2% 26.8% 33.1% 33.8% 41.7% Two years later 48.6% 48.2% 43.2% 43.0% 43.7% 40.6% 42.5% 51.6% 58.0% Three years later 59.8% 59.2% 55.3% 55.4% 54.2% 50.9% 54.4% 67.2% Four years later 67.9% 67.6% 64.8% 63.3% 60.8% 59.1% 66.3% Five years later 74.0% 74.3% 71.1% 67.8% 67.0% 68.0% Six years later 79.5% 78.8% 74.5% 72.7% 74.0% Seven years later 83.2% 81.2% 78.6% 78.6% Eight years later 85.2% 84.8% 83.9% Nine years later 88.5% 89.0% Ten years later 89.9% </TABLE> (*) Reflects significant A&E charges and reallocations in 1994, 1996 and 1998 for prior years losses. Excluding these items, the re-estimated liability shown above would decrease ranging from approximately 17 percentage points in 1988 to 6 percentage points in 1997.
The following is a reconciliation of the net liability to the gross liability for unpaid losses and LAE. 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 As originally estimated: Net liability shown above $2,113 $2,187 $3,393 $3,404 $3,489 $3,305 Add reinsurance recoverables 611 730 704 720 736 1,468 Gross liability $2,724 $2,917 $4,097 $4,124 $4,225 $4,773 As re-estimated at December 31, 1998: Net liability shown above $2,317 $2,393 $3,526 $3,604 $3,644 Add reinsurance recoverables 928 919 993 996 1,065 Gross liability $3,245 $3,312 $4,519 $4,600 $4,709 N/A Gross cumulative deficiency (redundancy) 19.0% 13.6% 10.3% 11.5% 11.5% N/A 11
The following table presents certain data from the table above, adjusted to include reserves of American Premier's subsidiaries for periods subsequent to their entry into the insurance business in 1989 and prior to the Mergers in 1995. 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses: As originally estimated $2,616 $2,739 $2,793 $2,886 $3,029 $3,267 As re-estimated at December 31, 1998 3,083 3,121 3,092 3,062 3,103 3,378 Cumulative deficiency (redundancy) 17.9% 14.0% 10.7% 6.1% 2.4% 3.4% Reconciliation of net liability to gross liability: As originally estimated: Net liability shown above $3,029 $3,267 Add reinsurance recoverables 617 742 Gross liability $3,646 $4,009 As re-estimated at December 31, 1998: Net liability shown above $3,103 $3,378 Add reinsurance recoverables 970 953 Gross liability $4,073 $4,331 Gross cumulative deficiency (redundancy) 11.7% 8.0% These tables do not present accident or policy year development data. Furthermore, in evaluating the re-estimated liability and cumulative deficiency (redundancy), it should be noted that each percentage includes the effects of changes in amounts for prior periods. For example, AFG's $214 million special charge for A&E claims related to losses recorded in 1998, but incurred before 1988, is included in the re-estimated liability and cumulative deficiency (redundancy) percentage for each of the previous years shown. Conditions and trends that have affected development of the liability in the past may not necessarily exist in the future. Accordingly, it may not be appropriate to extrapolate future redundancies or deficiencies based on this table. The adverse development in the tables is due primarily to A&E exposures for which AFG has been held liable under general liability policies written years ago where environmental coverage was not intended. Other factors affecting development included higher than projected inflation on medical, hospitalization, material, repair and replacement costs. Additionally, changes in the legal environment have influenced the development patterns over the past ten years. For example, changes in the California workers' compensation law in 1993 and subsequent court decisions, primarily in late 1996, greatly limited the ability of insurers to challenge medical assessments and treatments. These limitations, together with changes in work force characteristics and medical delivery costs, are contributing to an increase in claims severity. Two changes influencing development patterns in the 1980s were the trend towards an adverse litigious climate and the change from contributory to comparative negligence.
The differences between the liability for losses and LAE reported in the annual statements filed with the state insurance departments in accordance with statutory accounting principles ("SAP") and that reported in the accompanying consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP at December 31, 1998, are as follows (in millions): Liability reported on a SAP basis, net of $511 million of retroactive reinsurance $3,191 Additional discounting of GAAP reserves in excess of the statutory limitation for SAP reserves (7) Reserves of foreign operations 45 Estimated salvage and subrogation recoveries based on a cash basis for SAP and on an accrual basis for GAAP (1) Reinsurance recoverables, net of allowance 1,468 Reclassification of allowance for uncollectible reinsurance 77 Liability reported on a GAAP basis $4,773 12
Asbestos and Environmental Reserves ("A&E") In defining environmental exposures, the insurance industry typically includes claims relating to polluted waste sites and asbestos as well as other mass tort claims such as those relating to breast implants, repetitive stress on keyboards, DES (a drug used in pregnancies years ago alleged to cause cancer and birth defects) and other latent injuries. Establishing reserves for A&E claims is subject to uncertainties that are greater than those presented by other types of claims. Factors contributing to those uncertainties include a lack of sufficiently detailed historical data, long reporting delays, uncertainty as to the number and identity of insureds with potential exposure, unresolved legal issues regarding policy coverage, and the extent and timing of any such contractual liability. Courts have reached different and sometimes inconsistent conclusions as to when a loss is deemed to have occurred, what policies provide coverage, what claims are covered, whether there is an insured obligation to defend, how policy limits are determined and other policy provisions. Management believes these issues are not likely to be resolved in the near future. Significant industrywide information concerning A&E reserves first became broadly available in mid-1996 following the publication of new data relating to that subject in the 1995 Annual Statements of insurance companies. During 1995 and 1996, a number of insurers recorded large reserve increases for A&E exposures. During this time, the industry's survival ratio (reserves divided by annual paid losses) was used as a benchmark for reserving such claims. The following table compares AFG's three-year survival ratio for A&E claims with that of the industry. December 31, Survival Ratio: 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 AFG 19.5 10.0 10.5 6.5 7.0 Industry (a) N/A 8.9 9.0 9.4 7.8 (a) Source: "BestWeek - Property and Casualty Supplement" (September 21, 1998 Edition); 1998 is not available; the impact of an extraordinary case payment made in 1996 is excluded from industry ratios. Industry actions and statistics in 1995 caused AFG to re-evaluate its position in relation to its peers as part of the continuing process of obtaining additional information and revising accounting estimates. This process led management to conclude in 1996 that the A&E reserves should be increased sufficiently to bring AFG's three-year survival ratio in line with those of the top 50 companies. In the third quarter of 1996, AFG recorded a noncash, pretax charge of $80 million and reallocated $40 million in reserves from its Specialty group. As part of the continuing process of monitoring appropriate reserve needs and prompted by the retention of certain A&E exposures under the agreement covering the sale of its Commercial lines division, AFG began a thorough study of its A&E exposures in 1998. Based on this study and observations of industry trends in this regard, AFG decided that the survival ratio may not be the best basis for measuring ultimate A&E exposures. AFG's study was reviewed by independent actuaries who used state of the art actuarial techniques that have wide acceptance in the industry. AFG recorded a fourth quarter charge of $214 million in 1998 to increase A&E reserves to its best estimate of the ultimate liability. 13
The following table (in millions) is a progression of A&E reserves. During the review of A&E exposures in 1998, $13.8 million in reserves recorded prior to 1998 and not identified as A&E were determined to be A&E reserves. In addition, the allowance for uncollectible reinsurance applicable to ceded A&E reserves was not reflected in the following table prior to 1998. 1998 1997 1996 Reserves at beginning of year $347.9 $343.4 $225.7 Incurred losses and LAE (a) 247.5 43.2 149.0 Paid losses and LAE (26.1) (38.7) (31.3) Reserves transferred with sale of Commercial lines (11.4) - - Reserves not classified as A&E prior to 1998: Reserves 13.8 - - Allowance for uncollectable reinsurance applicable to ceded A&E reserves 53.7 - - Reserves at end of year, net of reinsurance recoverable 625.4 347.9 343.4 Reinsurance recoverable, net of allowance in 1998 240.7 173.2 162.7 Gross reserves at end of year $866.1 $521.1 $506.1 (a) Includes (i) special charges of $214 million in 1998 and $80 million in 1996 and (ii) a reallocation in 1996 of $40 million in reserves from its Specialty group. Since the mid-1980's, AFG has also written certain environmental coverages (asbestos abatement and underground storage tank liability) in which the premium charged is intended to provide coverage for the specific environmental exposures inherent in these policies. The business has been profitable since its inception. To date, approximately $182 million of premiums has been written, $20 million in losses and LAE have been paid and reserves for unpaid losses and LAE aggregated $30 million at December 31, 1998 (not included in the above table). 14
Annuity and Life Operations General AFG's annuity and life operations are conducted through American Annuity Group, Inc. ("AAG"), a holding company which markets primarily retirement annuity products as well as life and supplemental health insurance through the following subsidiaries (in millions). AAG and its subsidiaries employ approximately 1,700 persons. 1998 Statutory Subsidiary - year acquired Principal Products Premiums Great American Life Insurance Traditional fixed annuities $301 Company ("GALIC") - 1992(*) Equity-indexed annuities 58 Annuity Investors Life Insurance Variable annuities 89 Company ("AILIC") - 1994 Traditional fixed annuities 73 Loyal American Life Insurance Supplemental health 20 Company ("Loyal") - 1995 Supplemental life 17 Great American Life Assurance Company Life 37 of Puerto Rico, Inc. ("GAPR")-1997 Supplemental health 11 GALIC's Life Division (formed in 1997) Term and universal life 19 (*) Acquired from Great American. Acquisitions in recent years have supplemented AAG's internal growth as the assets of the holding company and its operating subsidiaries have increased from $4.5 billion at the end of 1992 to over $7.1 billion at the end of 1998. Premiums over the last three years were as follows (in millions): Insurance Product 1998 1997 1996 Retirement annuities $521 $489 $540 Life and health 104 42 43 $625 $531 $583 ________________ Table does not include premiums of subsidiaries or divisions until their first full year following acquisition or formation. All periods exclude premiums of subsidiaries sold. In September 1998, AAG sold its Funeral Services division. This division had assets of approximately $1 billion as of September 30, 1998 and 1997 premiums of $111 million. Retirement Products AAG's principal retirement products are Flexible Premium Deferred Annuities ("FPDAs") and Single Premium Deferred Annuities ("SPDAs"). Annuities are long-term retirement saving instruments that benefit from income accruing on a tax-deferred basis. The issuer of the annuity collects premiums, credits interest on the policy and pays out a benefit upon death, surrender or annuitization. FPDAs are characterized by premium payments that are flexible in both amount and timing as determined by the policyholder. SPDAs are issued in exchange for a one-time lump-sum premium payment. 15
The following table (in millions) presents combined financial information concerning AAG's principal retirement annuity subsidiaries, GALIC and AILIC. 1998 1997 1996 GAAP Basis Total Assets $6,549 $6,289 $5,942 Fixed Annuity Reserves 5,396 5,355 5,211 Variable Annuity Reserves (separate accounts) 120 37 3 Stockholder's Equity 862 770 658 Statutory Basis Total Assets $6,159 $5,977 $5,760 Fixed Annuity Reserves 5,538 5,469 5,302 Variable Annuity Reserves (separate accounts) 120 37 3 Capital and Surplus 350 317 285 Asset Valuation Reserve (a) 63 65 91 Interest Maintenance Reserve (a) 21 24 25 Annuity Receipts: Flexible Premium: First Year $ 45 $ 38 $ 36 Renewal 149 160 182 194 198 218 Single Premium 327 291 322 Total Annuity Receipts $ 521 $ 489 $ 540 ________________ (a) Allocation of surplus. Sales of annuities are affected by many factors, including: (i) competitive annuity products and rates; (ii) the general level of interest rates; (iii) the favorable tax treatment of annuities; (iv) commissions paid to agents; (v) services offered; (vi) ratings from independent insurance rating agencies; (vii) other alternative investments and (viii) general economic conditions. At December 31, 1998, AAG had approximately 265,000 annuity policies in force. Annuity contracts are generally classified as either fixed rate (including equity-indexed) or variable. With a fixed rate annuity, the interest crediting rate is initially set by the issuer and thereafter may be changed from time to time by the issuer subject to any guaranteed minimum interest crediting rates in the policy. With a variable annuity, the value of the policy is tied to an underlying securities portfolio or underlying mutual funds. The following table presents premiums by classification: Premiums 1998 1997 1996 Traditional fixed 72% 83% 98% Equity-indexed 11 8 2 Variable 17 9 * 100% 100% 100% ________________ * less than 1%
AAG seeks to maintain a desired spread between the yield on its investment portfolio and the rate it credits to its fixed rate annuities. AAG accomplishes this by: (i) offering crediting rates which it has the option to change; (ii) designing annuity products that encourage persistency and (iii) maintaining an appropriate matching of assets and liabilities. AAG designs its products with certain surrender penalties to discourage policyholders from surrendering or withdrawing funds during the first five to ten years after issuance of a policy. Partly due to these features, annuity surrenders have averaged less than 10% of statutory reserves over the past five years. 16
All of AAG's fixed rate annuities offer a minimum interest rate guarantee of 3% or 4%; the majority permit AAG to change the crediting rate at any time (subject to the minimum guaranteed interest rates). In determining the frequency and extent of changes in the crediting rate, AAG takes into account the economic environment and the relative competitive position of its products. Over the last few years, traditional fixed rate annuities have met substantial competition from mutual funds and other equity-based investments. In response, AAG began offering equity-indexed annuities and variable annuities. An equity-indexed fixed annuity provides policyholders with a crediting rate tied, in part, to the performance of an existing stock market index while protecting them against the related downside risk through a guarantee of principal. AAG hedges the equity-based risk component of this product through the purchase of call options on the appropriate index. These options are designed to offset substantially all of the increases in the liabilities associated with equity-indexed annuities. Industry sales of variable annuities have increased substantially over the last ten years as investors have sought to obtain the returns available in the equity markets while enjoying the tax-deferred status of annuities. With a variable annuity, the earnings credited to the policy vary based on the investment results of the underlying investment options chosen by the policyholder. Premiums directed to the variable options in policies issued by AAG are invested in funds managed by various independent investment managers. AAG earns a fee on amounts deposited into variable accounts. Policyholders may also choose to direct all or a portion of their premiums to various fixed rate options, in which case AAG earns a spread on amounts deposited. The following table reflects the geographical distribution of AAG's annuity premiums in 1998 compared to 1994. 1998 1994 1998 1994 California 28.8% 20.5% Michigan 3.4% 9.1% Ohio 7.5 6.2 New Jersey 3.4 4.5 Texas 4.9 2.6 Indiana 2.8 * Washington 4.8 3.7 Connecticut 2.4 4.4 Florida 4.7 8.5 Pennsylvania 2.4 * Massachusetts 4.6 8.0 Illinois 2.2 3.1 North Carolina 4.1 3.0 Iowa 2.1 2.0 Minnesota 3.6 4.6 Rhode Island * 2.0 Other 18.3 17.8 _______________ 100.0% 100.0% (*) less than 2% AAG's FPDAs are sold primarily to employees of qualified not-for-profit organizations. Employees of these organizations are eligible to save for retirement through contributions made on a before-tax basis. Contributions are made at the discretion of the participants through payroll deductions or through tax-free "rollovers" of funds from other qualified investments. Federal income taxes are not payable on contributions or earnings until amounts are withdrawn.
Historically, AAG's principal marketing focus had been on sales to employees of educational institutions in the kindergarten through high school segment. However, sales of non-qualified annuities have begun to represent an increasing percentage of premiums (33% in 1998 compared to 15% in 1994) as AAG has developed products and distribution channels targeted to the non-qualified markets. AAG distributes its annuity products through approximately 90 managing general agents ("MGAs") who, in turn, direct approximately 1,000 actively producing independent agents. AAG has developed its business on the basis of its relationships with MGAs and independent agents primarily through a consistent marketing approach and responsive service. To extend the distribution of its annuities to a broader customer base, AAG developed a personal producing general agent ("PPGA") distribution system. More than 100 PPGAs are contracted to sell annuities in those territories not served by an MGA. 17
Life, Accident and Health Products AAG offers a variety of life, accident and health products through Loyal, GAPR and GALIC's life division. This group produced approximately $100 million of premiums in 1998. At year end 1998, it had assets of over $550 million. It also had more than 500,000 policies and $7.1 billion of life insurance in force. Loyal offers a variety of life and supplemental health insurance products through payroll deduction plans and credit unions. The principal products sold by Loyal include cancer, universal life, traditional whole life, hospital indemnity, and short-term disability insurance. Loyal's products are marketed with the endorsement or consent of the employer or the credit union management. GAPR sells in-home service life and supplemental health products through a network of company-employed agents. Ordinary life, cancer, credit and group life products are sold through independent agents. In December 1997, GALIC's life division began offering term, universal and whole life insurance products through national marketing organizations. Sale of Funeral Services Division In September 1998, AAG sold its Funeral Services division for approximately $165 million in cash. The Funeral Services division provided life insurance and annuities to fund pre-arranged funerals, as well as administrative services for pre-arranged funeral trusts. This division included American Memorial Life Insurance Company (acquired in 1995) and Arkansas National Life Insurance Company (acquired in 1998). Independent Ratings AAG's principal insurance subsidiaries are rated by Standard & Poor's, A.M. Best and Duff & Phelps. Such ratings are generally based on items of concern to policyholders and agents and are not directed toward the protection of investors. Standard & Poor's A.M. Best Duff & Phelps GALIC A+ (Strong) A (Excellent) AA- (Very high) AILIC A+ (Strong) A (Excellent) AA- (Very high) Loyal A (Strong) A (Excellent) AA- (Very high) GAPR Not rated A (Excellent) Not rated AAG believes that the ratings assigned by independent insurance rating agencies are important because potential policyholders often use a company's rating as an initial screening device in considering annuity products. AAG believes that a rating in the "A" category by at least one rating agency is necessary for GALIC to successfully market tax-deferred annuities to public education employees and other not-for-profit groups. Although AAG believes that its insurance companies' ratings are very stable, those companies' operations could be materially adversely affected by a downgrade in ratings. 18
Competition AAG's insurance companies operate in highly competitive markets. They compete with other insurers and financial institutions based on many factors, including: (i) ratings; (ii) financial strength; (iii) reputation; (iv) service to policyholders and agents; (v) product design (including interest rates credited and premium rates charged); and (vi) commissions. Since policies are marketed and distributed primarily through independent agents (except at GAPR), the insurance companies must also compete for agents. AAG believes that consistently targeting the same market and emphasizing service to agents and policyholders provides a competitive advantage. No single insurer dominates the annuity marketplace. Competitors include (i) individual insurers and insurance groups, (ii) mutual funds and (iii) other financial institutions of varying sizes. In a broader sense, AAG's insurance companies compete for retirement savings with a variety of financial institutions offering a full range of financial services. Financial institutions have demonstrated a growing interest in marketing investment and savings products other than traditional deposit accounts. In addition, recent judicial and regulatory decisions have expanded powers of financial institutions in this regard. It is too early to predict what impact, if any, these developments will have on the insurance companies. Foreign Operations In 1998, AAG opened an office in Bangalore, India. Employees located at this office perform computer programming and certain back office functions for AAG's insurance operations. Management believes there are sufficient resources available at domestic locations should there be any interruption in the operations at this office and as a result no materially adverse impact would result from any such interruption. Other Companies Through subsidiaries, AFG is engaged in a variety of other businesses, including The Golf Center at Kings Island (golf and tennis facility) in the Greater Cincinnati area; commercial real estate operations in Cincinnati (office buildings and The Cincinnatian Hotel), New Orleans (Le Pavillon Hotel), Cape Cod (Chatham Bars Inn), Austin (Driskill Hotel) and apartments in Austin, Houston, Lafayette-Louisiana, Louisville, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, St. Paul and Tampa Bay. These operations employ approximately 700 full-time employees.
Investment Portfolio General A summary of AFG's December 31, 1998, investment portfolio by business segment follows (excluding investment in equity securities of investee corporations) (in millions). Total Carrying Value Market P&C Annuity Other Total Value Cash and short-term investments $ 142 $ 133 $22 $ 297 $ 297 Fixed maturities 4,271 6,023 30 10,324 10,324 Other stocks, options and warrants 342 83 5 430 430 Policy loans - 220 - 220 220(a) Real estate and other investments 126 119 27 272 272(a) $4,881 $6,578 $84 $11,543 $11,543 (a) Carrying value used since market values are not readily available. 19
The following tables present the percentage distribution and yields of AFG's investment portfolio (excluding investment in equity securities of investee corporations) as reflected in its financial statements. 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 Cash and Short-term Investments 2.6% 2.1% 3.9% 4.9% 2.2% Fixed Maturities: U.S. Government and Agencies 4.4 5.0 4.1 3.7 4.0 State and Municipal 1.2 1.3 1.0 .7 .8 Public Utilities 6.0 6.8 8.2 9.7 9.1 Mortgage-Backed Securities 20.8 21.4 22.2 20.7 21.8 Corporate and Other 53.0 52.3 51.5 49.5 53.4 Redeemable Preferred Stocks .5 .6 .5 1.0 1.4 85.9 87.4 87.5 85.3 90.5 Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on fixed maturities held Available for Sale 3.5 2.5 1.1 2.7 (1.0) 89.4 89.9 88.6 88.0 89.5 Other Stocks, Options and Warrants 3.7 3.7 2.8 2.3 2.7 Policy Loans 1.9 2.0 2.1 2.1 2.5 Real Estate and Other Investments 2.4 2.3 2.6 2.7 3.1 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Yield on Fixed Income Securities: Excluding realized gains and losses 7.8% 7.8% 7.9% 7.9% 8.1% Including realized gains and losses 8.0% 7.9% 7.7% 8.8% 8.1% Yield on Stocks: Excluding realized gains and losses 5.4% 5.6% 5.8% 3.9% 5.1% Including realized gains and losses (5.3%) 30.2% 15.1% 8.4% 35.4% Yield on Investments (*): Excluding realized gains and losses 7.8% 7.8% 7.8% 7.9% 8.1% Including realized gains and losses 7.8% 8.2% 7.8% 8.8% 8.8% (*) Excludes "Real Estate and Other Investments".
Fixed Maturity Investments Unlike many insurance groups which have portfolios that are invested heavily in tax-exempt bonds, AFG's bond portfolio is invested primarily in taxable bonds. The NAIC assigns quality ratings which range from Class 1 (highest quality) to Class 6 (lowest quality). The following table shows AFG's bonds and redeemable preferred stocks, by NAIC designation (and comparable Standard & Poor's Corporation rating) as of December 31, 1998 (dollars in millions). NAIC Amortized Market Value Rating Comparable S&P Rating Cost Amount % 1 AAA, AA, A $6,681 $ 7,000 68% 2 BBB 2,401 2,484 24 Total investment grade 9,082 9,484 92 3 BB 426 435 4 4 B 320 315 3 5 CCC, CC, C 92 81 1 6 D 1 9 * Total noninvestment grade 839 840 8 Total $9,921 $10,324 100% _______________ (*) Less than 1% 20
Risks inherent in connection with fixed income securities include loss upon default and market price volatility. Factors which can affect the market price of securities include: creditworthiness, changes in interest rates, the number of market makers and investors and defaults by major issuers of securities. AFG's primary investment objective for fixed maturities is to earn interest and dividend income rather than to realize capital gains. AFG invests in bonds and redeemable preferred stocks that have primarily short-term and intermediate-term maturities. This practice allows flexibility in reacting to fluctuations of interest rates. Equity Investments AFG's equity investment practice permits concentration of attention on a relatively limited number of companies. Some of the equity investments, because of their size, may not be as readily marketable as the typical small investment position. Alternatively, a large equity position may be attractive to persons seeking to control or influence the policies of a company and AFG's concentration in a relatively small number of companies may permit it to identify investments with above average potential to increase in value. Chiquita At December 31, 1998, AFG owned 24 million shares of Chiquita common stock representing 37% of its outstanding shares. The carrying value and market value of AFG's investment in Chiquita were approximately $192 million and $229 million, respectively, at December 31, 1998. Chiquita is a leading international marketer, producer and distributor of quality fresh fruits and vegetables and processed foods. In addition to bananas, these products include a wide variety of other fresh fruits and vegetables; fruit and vegetable juices and beverages; processed bananas and other processed fruits and vegetables; private-label and branded canned vegetables; fresh cut and ready-to-eat salads; and edible oil-based consumer products. Citicasters In 1996, AFG sold its investment in Citicasters to Jacor Communications for approximately $220 million in cash plus warrants to purchase Jacor common stock. Citicasters owned radio and television stations in major markets throughout the country. Other Stocks AFG's $243 million investment in Provident Financial Group, Inc., a Cincinnati-based commercial banking and financial services company, comprised approximately three-fifths of the equity investments included in "Other stocks" in AFG's Balance Sheet at December 31, 1998.
Regulation AFG's insurance company subsidiaries are subject to regulation in the jurisdictions where they do business. In general, the insurance laws of the various states establish regulatory agencies with broad administrative powers governing, among other things, premium rates, solvency standards, licensing of insurers, agents and brokers, trade practices, forms of policies, maintenance of specified reserves and capital for the protection of policyholders, deposits of securities for the benefit of policyholders, investment activities and relationships between insurance subsidiaries and their parents and affiliates. Material transactions between insurance subsidiaries and their parents and affiliates generally must be disclosed and prior approval of the applicable insurance regulatory authorities generally is required for any such transaction which may be deemed to be material or extraordinary. In addition, while differing from state to state, these regulations typically restrict the maximum amount of dividends that may be paid by an insurer to its shareholders in any twelve-month period without advance regulatory approval. Such limitations are generally based on net earnings or statutory surplus. Under applicable restrictions, the maximum amount of dividends available to AFG in 1999 from its insurance subsidiaries without seeking regulatory clearance is approximately $281 million. 21
Changes in state insurance laws and regulations have the potential to materially affect the revenues and expenses of the insurance operations. For example, between July 1993 and January 1995, the California Commissioner ordered reductions in workers' compensation insurance premium rates totaling more than 30% and subsequently replaced the workers' compensation insurance minimum rate law with an "open rating" policy. The Company is unable to predict whether or when other state insurance laws or regulations may be adopted or enacted or what the impact of such developments would be on the future operations and revenues of its insurance businesses. Most states have created insurance guarantee associations to provide for the payment of claims of insurance companies that become insolvent. Annual assessments for AFG's insurance companies have not been material. In addition, many states have created "assigned risk" plans or similar arrangements to provide state mandated minimum levels of automobile liability coverage to drivers whose driving records or other relevant characteristics make it difficult for them to obtain insurance otherwise. Automobile insurers in those states are required to provide such coverage to a proportionate number of those drivers applying as assigned risks. Premium rates for assigned risk business are established by the regulators of the particular state plan and are frequently inadequate in relation to the risks insured, resulting in underwriting losses. Assigned risks accounted for approximately one percent of AFG's net written premiums in 1998. The NAIC is an organization which is comprised of the chief insurance regulator for each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia. In 1990, the NAIC began an accreditation program to ensure that states have adequate procedures in place for effective insurance regulation, especially with respect to financial solvency. The accreditation program requires that a state meet specific minimum standards in over 15 regulatory areas to be considered for accreditation. The accreditation program is an ongoing process and once accredited, a state must enact any new or modified standards approved by the NAIC within two years following adoption. As of December 31, 1998, the District of Columbia and 48 states were accredited including states which regulate AFG's largest insurance subsidiaries. The NAIC model law for Risk Based Capital applies to both life and property and casualty companies. The risk-based capital formulas determine the amount of capital that an insurance company needs to ensure that it has an acceptably low expectation of becoming financially impaired. The model law provides for increasing levels of regulatory intervention as the ratio of an insurer's total adjusted capital and surplus decreases relative to its risk-based capital, culminating with mandatory control of the operations of the insurer by the domiciliary insurance department at the so-called "mandatory control level". At December 31, 1998, the capital ratios of all AFG insurance companies substantially exceeded the risk-based capital requirements.
ITEM 2 Properties Subsidiaries of AFG own several buildings in downtown Cincinnati. AFG and its affiliates occupy about 70% of the aggregate 660,000 square feet of commercial and office space. AFG's insurance subsidiaries lease the majority of their office and storage facilities in numerous cities throughout the United States, including Great American's and AAG's home offices in Cincinnati. An AAG subsidiary owns an office building in Mobile, Alabama which is being marketed for sale or lease; one-fifth of its 82,000 square feet is company occupied. AFG subsidiaries own transferable rights to develop approximately 1.5 million square feet of floor space in the Grand Central Terminal area in New York City. The development rights were derived from ownership of the land upon which the terminal is constructed. 22
ITEM 3 Legal Proceedings Please refer to "Forward Looking Statements" following the Index in front of this Form 10-K. AFG and its subsidiaries are involved in various litigation, most of which arose in the ordinary course of business, including litigation alleging bad faith in dealing with policyholders and challenging certain business practices of insurance subsidiaries. Except for the following, management believes that none of the litigation meets the threshold for disclosure under this Item. In February 1994, the USX Corporation ("USX") paid nearly $600 million in satisfaction of antitrust judgments entered against its subsidiary, The Bessemer & Lake Erie Railroad ("B&LE"). In May 1994, USX/B&LE filed two lawsuits, one in state and the other in federal court, against American Premier as the reorganized successor of The Penn Central Corporation seeking to recover this amount under theories of indemnity and contribution law. In disclosing the existence of these lawsuits, American Premier stated that it had sufficient defenses and did not expect to suffer any material loss from the litigation. In May 1998, the largest and last of these lawsuits was dismissed in state court; a companion federal lawsuit had been dismissed earlier in 1998. Both of the lawsuits were dismissed on American Premier's Motion for Summary Judgment filed in state and federal court. The state court action is now on appeal to the Eighth Appellate District of Ohio in Cleveland, Ohio. The federal court action is now on appeal to the US Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit in Cincinnati, Ohio. American Premier and its outside counsel continue to believe that American Premier will not suffer any material loss from either of these cases. American Premier is a party or named as a potentially responsible party in a number of proceedings and claims by regulatory agencies and private parties under various environmental protection laws, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act ("CERCLA"), seeking to impose responsibility on American Premier for hazardous waste remediation costs at certain railroad sites formerly owned by Penn Central Transportation Company ("PCTC") and at certain other sites where hazardous waste allegedly generated by PCTC's railroad operations is present. It is difficult to estimate American Premier's liability for remediation costs at these sites for a number of reasons, including the number and financial resources of other potentially responsible parties involved at a given site, the varying availability of evidence by which to allocate responsibility among such parties, the wide range of costs for possible remediation alternatives, changing technology and the period of time over which these matters develop. Nevertheless, American Premier believes that its previously established loss accruals for potential pre-reorganization environmental liabilities at such sites are adequate to cover the probable amount of such liabilities, based on American Premier's estimates of remediation costs and related expenses at such sites and its estimates of the portions of such costs that will be borne by other parties. Such estimates are based on information currently available to American Premier and are subject to future change as additional information becomes available. American Premier intends to seek reimbursement from certain insurers for portions of whatever remediation costs it incurs.
In terms of potential liability to American Premier, the company believes that the most significant such site is the railyard at Paoli, Pennsylvania ("Paoli Yard") which PCTC transferred to Consolidated Rail Corporation ("Conrail") in 1976. A Record of Decision issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1992 presented a final selected remedial action for clean-up of polychlorinated biphenyls ("PCB's") at Paoli Yard having an estimated cost of approximately $28 million. American Premier has accrued its portion of such estimated clean-up costs in its financial statements (in addition to other expenses) but has not accrued the entire amount because it believes it is probable that other parties, including Conrail, will be responsible for substantial percentages of the clean-up costs by virtue of their operation of electrified railroad cars at Paoli Yard that discharged PCB's at higher levels than discharged by cars operated by PCTC. 23
In management's opinion, the outcome of the foregoing environmental claims and contingencies will not, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on the financial condition of American Premier. In making this assessment, management has taken into account previously established loss accruals in its financial statements and probable recoveries from third parties. PART II ITEM 5 Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters Please refer to "Forward Looking Statements" following the Index in front of this Form 10-K. AFG (and its predecessor's) Common Stock has been listed and traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AFG. The information presented in the table below represents the high and low sales prices per share reported on the NYSE Composite Tape. 1998 1997 High Low High Low First Quarter $44 3/16 $37 5/8 $38 3/8 $34 7/8 Second Quarter 45 3/4 42 3/8 42 3/4 32 3/8 Third Quarter 44 7/8 32 3/8 49 1/4 42 3/16 Fourth Quarter 43 7/8 30 1/2 46 11/16 34 9/16 There were approximately 16,300 shareholders of record of AFG Common Stock at March 1, 1999. AFG's policy is to pay quarterly dividends on its Common Stock in amounts determined by its Board of Directors. In 1998 and 1997, AFG declared and paid quarterly dividends of $.25 per share. The ability of AFG to pay dividends will be dependent upon, among other things, the availability of dividends and payments under intercompany tax allocation agreements from its insurance company subsidiaries. 24
ITEM 6 Selected Financial Data The following table sets forth certain data for the periods indicated (dollars in millions, except per share data). <TABLE> <CAPTION> 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> Earnings Statement Data: Total Revenues $4,050 $4,021 $4,115 $3,630 $2,104 Earnings Before Income Taxes and Extraordinary Items 205 320 353 247 44 Earnings Before Extraordinary Items 125 199 262 190 19 Extraordinary Items (1) (7) (29) 1 (17) Net Earnings 124 192 233 191 2 Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share (a): Earnings (Loss) before Extraordinary Items and Premium on Redemption of Preferred Stock $2.04 $3.34 $4.31 $3.87 ($.24) Net Earnings (Loss) Available to Common Shares 2.03 .65 3.84 3.88 (.83) Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share (a): Earnings (Loss) before Extraordinary Items and Premium on Redemption of Preferred Stock $2.01 $3.28 $4.26 $3.83 ($.24) Net Earnings (Loss) Available to Common Shares 2.00 .64 3.79 3.85 (.83) Cash Dividends Paid Per Share of Common Stock $1.00 $1.00 $1.00 $.75 (b) Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges (c) 3.22 3.98 4.22 2.60 1.69
Balance Sheet Data: Total Assets $15,845 $15,755 $15,051 $14,954 $10,593 Long-term Debt: Holding Companies 415 387 340 648 849 Subsidiaries 177 194 178 234 258 Minority Interest (d) 522 513 494 314 106 Capital Subject to Mandatory Redemption - - - - 3 Other Capital 1,716 1,663 1,554 1,440 396 </TABLE> (a) Net earnings available to common shares for 1997 is calculated after deducting a premium over stated value on redemption of a subsidiary's preferred stock of $153.3 million. The number of shares used for periods prior to April 1995, is the 28.3 million shares issued in exchange for AFC shares in the Mergers. (b) Prior to the Mergers, AFC's common stock was privately held by members of the Lindner family. In 1995, American Premier declared and paid cash dividends per share of $.25 prior to the Mergers; it also declared cash dividends of $.91 in 1994. AFG declared two quarterly $.25 per share dividends subsequent to the Mergers in 1995. (c) Fixed charges are computed on a "total enterprise" basis. For purposes of calculating the ratios, "earnings" have been computed by adding to pretax earnings the fixed charges and the minority interest in earnings of subsidiaries having fixed charges and deducting (adding) the undistributed equity in earnings (losses) of investees. Fixed charges include interest (excluding interest on annuity benefits), amortization of debt premium/discount and expense, preferred dividend and distribution requirements of subsidiaries and a portion of rental expense deemed to be representative of the interest factor. (d) Includes AFC preferred stock following the Mergers and trust preferred securities of subsidiaries issued in 1996 and 1997. 25
ITEM 7 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Please refer to "Forward Looking Statements" following the Index in front of this Form 10-K. GENERAL Following is a discussion and analysis of the financial statements and other statistical data that management believes will enhance the understanding of AFG's financial condition and results of operations. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the financial statements beginning on page F-1. AFG was formed through the combination of AFC and American Premier in merger transactions completed in April 1995 (the "Mergers"). LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES Ratios Following the Mergers, AFC and American Premier retired or replaced with lower cost financing over $1 billion in debt and preferred stock reducing AFG's interest expense and preferred dividend requirements by over $110 million annually. AFG's debt to total capital ratio at the parent holding company level improved from nearly 60% at the date of the Mergers to approximately 18% at December 31, 1998. AFG's ratio of earnings to fixed charges on a total enterprise basis was 3.22 for the year ended December 31, 1998 compared to 2.07 in 1994 (pro forma for the Mergers and related transactions). The National Association of Insurance Commissioners' model law for risk based capital ("RBC") applies to both life and property and casualty companies. RBC formulas determine the amount of capital that an insurance company needs to ensure that it has an acceptable expectation of not becoming financially impaired. At December 31, 1998, the capital ratios of all AFG insurance companies substantially exceeded the RBC requirements (the lowest capital ratio of any AFG subsidiary was 2.1 times its authorized control level RBC; weighted average of all AFG subsidiaries was 5.0 times). Sources of Funds AFG and its subsidiaries, AFC Holding, AFC and American Premier, are organized as holding companies with almost all of their operations being conducted by subsidiaries. These parent corporations, however, have continuing cash needs for administrative expenses, the payment of principal and interest on borrowings, shareholder dividends, and taxes. Funds to meet these obligations come primarily from dividend and tax payments from their subsidiaries. Management believes these parent holding companies have sufficient resources to meet their liquidity requirements through operations in the short-term and long-term future. If funds generated from operations, including dividends and tax payments from subsidiaries, are insufficient to meet fixed charges in any period, these companies would be required to generate cash through borrowings, sales of securities or other assets, or similar transactions.
In December 1997, the parent holding companies entered into a reciprocal Master Credit Agreement under which these companies make funds available to each other for general corporate purposes. The senior debentures of AFG, AFC and AAG are rated investment grade by three nationally recognized rating agencies; the subordinated debentures of APU and AAG are rated investment grade by two of the agencies. A new five-year, $300 million bank credit line was established by AFC in February 1998 replacing two subsidiary holding company lines. The new credit line provides ample liquidity and can be used to obtain funds for operating subsidiaries or, if necessary, for the parent companies. At December 31, 1998, there was $80 million borrowed under the line. 26
In 1996 and 1997, wholly-owned trust subsidiaries of AFC Holding and AAG sold preferred securities for cash proceeds totaling $100 million and $225 million, respectively. Proceeds were used to retire outstanding debt and preferred stock of subsidiaries and for general corporate purposes, including a capital contribution to a subsidiary. In 1997, AFG filed a shelf registration statement for the future issuance of up to an aggregate of $500 million in common stock, debt or trust securities. The filing provides AFG with greater flexibility to access the capital markets from time to time as market and other conditions permit. In December 1997, AFG issued $100 million of 7-1/8% Senior Debentures due 2007 under this shelf registration statement. AFG used the proceeds to retire outstanding preferred stock of AFC and minority shares of a subsidiary. Dividend payments from subsidiaries have been very important to the liquidity and cash flow of the individual holding companies in the past. However, the reliance on such dividend payments has been lessened by the combination of (i) strong capital at AFG's insurance subsidiaries (and the related decreased likelihood of a need for investment in those companies), (ii) the reductions of debt at the holding companies (and the related decrease in ongoing cash needs for interest and principal payments), (iii) AFG's ability to obtain financing in capital markets, as well as (iv) the sales of noncore investments. For statutory accounting purposes, equity securities are generally carried at market value. At December 31, 1998, AFG's insurance companies owned publicly traded equity securities with a market value of $1.4 billion, including equity securities of AFG affiliates (including subsidiaries) of $1.0 billion. Since significant amounts of these are concentrated in a relatively small number of companies, decreases in the market prices could adversely affect the insurance group's capital, potentially impacting the amount of dividends available or necessitating a capital contribution. Conversely, increases in the market prices could have a favorable impact on the group's dividend-paying capability. Under tax allocation agreements with AFC, its 80%-owned U.S. subsidiaries generally compute tax provisions as if filing separate returns based on book taxable income computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The resulting provision (or credit) is currently payable to (or receivable from) AFC. Uncertainties Two lawsuits were filed in 1994 against American Premier by USX Corporation ("USX") and a former USX subsidiary. The lawsuits seek contribution from American Premier for all or a portion of a $600 million final antitrust judgment entered against a USX subsidiary in 1994. The lawsuits argue that USX's liability for that judgment is attributable to the alleged activities of American Premier's predecessor in an unlawful antitrust conspiracy among certain railroad companies. In May 1998, the largest and last of the lawsuits was dismissed in state court. All of USX's claims against American Premier have now been dismissed with prejudice, and, although USX has appeals pending, American Premier and its outside legal counsel continue to believe that American Premier will not suffer a material loss from this litigation.
Great American's liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses includes amounts for various liability coverages related to environmental, hazardous product and other mass tort claims. At December 31, 1998, Great American had recorded $866 million (before reinsurance recoverables of $241 million) for such claims on policies written many years ago where, in most cases, coverage was never intended. Due to inconsistent court decisions on many coverage issues and the difficulty in determining standards acceptable for cleaning up pollution sites, significant uncertainties exist which are not likely to be resolved in the near future. AFG's subsidiaries are parties in a number of proceedings relating to former operations. While the results of all such uncertainties cannot be predicted, based upon its knowledge of the facts, circumstances and applicable laws, management believes that sufficient reserves have been provided. See Note L to the financial statements. 27
Year 2000 Status AFG's Year 2000 Project is a corporate-wide program designed to ensure that its computer systems and other equipment using date-sensitive computer chips will function properly in the year 2000. The Project also encompasses communicating with agents, vendors, financial institutions and others with which the companies conduct business to determine their Year 2000 readiness and resulting effects on AFG. AFG's Year 2000 Project Office monitors and coordinates the work being performed by the various business units and reports monthly to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors and more frequently to senior management. To address the Year 2000 issue, AFG's operations have been divided into separate systems groups. During 1998, these groups were in the process of either (i) modifying their software programs or (ii) replacing programs with new software that is Year 2000 compliant. A majority of the groups have met AFG's goal of having program modifications and new software installations substantially completed by the end of 1998, with testing continuing in and through 1999. About 40% of the groups is being "closely watched" because there is some degree of risk that critical dates in the project schedule may be missed with a potential for some disruption of normal business operations. AFG's goal is to have program modifications and new installations for these groups completed during mid-1999. One group, which has significantly missed internal project deadlines, now has been reorganized and staffing levels were increased. This group is expected to be completed during the third quarter of 1999. Contingency plans have been developed for certain systems deemed most critical to operations. These plans provide a documented order of actions necessary to keep the business functions operating for these systems. Such plans typically include procedures and workflow processes for developing and operating contingent databases. Contingency planning for other systems deemed critical to operations and reasonably likely not to be modified on schedule began in the fourth quarter of 1998 and will be completed by mid-1999. Many of the systems being replaced were planned replacements which were accelerated due to the Year 2000 considerations. In addition, a significant portion of AFG's Year 2000 Project is being completed using internal staff. Therefore, cost estimates for the Year 2000 Project do not represent solely incremental costs. From the inception of the Year 2000 Project in the early 1990's through December 31, 1998, AFG estimates that it has incurred approximately $46 million in costs related to the Project, including capitalized costs of $10 million for new systems. During 1998, $27 million in such costs have been expensed. AFG estimates that it will incur an additional $26 million of such costs in completing the Project, about two-thirds of which is projected to be expensed. Projected Year 2000 costs and completion dates are based on management's best estimates. However, there can be no assurances that these estimates will be achieved. Should software modifications and new software installations not be completed on a timely basis, the resulting disruptions could have a material adverse effect on operations.
AFG's operations could also be affected by the inability of third parties such as agents and vendors to become Year 2000 compliant. While assessments of independent agents and evaluations of third party vendors are progressing slowly, efforts are being intensified to complete these assessments in the second quarter of 1999. In addition, AFG's property and casualty insurance subsidiaries are reviewing the potential impact of the Year 2000 issue on insureds as part of their underwriting process. They are also reviewing policy forms, issuing clarifying endorsements where appropriate and examining coverage issues for Year 2000 exposures. While it is possible that Year 2000 claims may emerge in future periods, it is not possible to estimate any such amounts. Exposure to Market Risk Market risk represents the potential economic loss arising from adverse changes in the fair value of financial instruments. AFG's exposures to market risk relate primarily to its investment portfolio and annuity contracts which are exposed to interest rate risk and, to a lesser extent, equity price risk. AFG's long-term debt is also exposed to interest rate risk. AFG's investments in derivatives were not significant at December 31, 1998. 28
Fixed Maturity Portfolio The fair value of AFG's fixed maturity portfolio ($10.3 billion at December 31, 1998) is directly impacted by changes in market interest rates. AFG's fixed maturity portfolio is comprised of substantially all fixed rate investments with primarily short-term and intermediate-term maturities. This practice allows flexibility in reacting to fluctuations of interest rates. The portfolios of AFG's property and casualty insurance and life and annuity operations are managed with an attempt to achieve an adequate risk-adjusted return while maintaining sufficient liquidity to meet policyholder obligations. AFG's life and annuity operations use various actuarial models in an attempt to align the duration of their invested assets to the projected cash flows of policyholder liabilities. The following table provides information about AFG's fixed maturity investments at December 31, 1998, that are sensitive to interest rate risk. The table shows principal cash flows (in millions) and related weighted-average interest rates by expected maturity dates. Callable bonds and notes are included based on call date or maturity date depending upon which date produces the most conservative yield. Mortgage-backed securities ("MBSs") and sinking fund issues are included based on maturity year adjusted for expected payment patterns. Actual cash flows may differ from those expected. Weighted Average Principal Interest Cash Flows Rate 1999 $ 849.8 7.87% 2000 942.7 8.01 2001 954.2 8.08 2002 1,086.3 7.76 2003 1,415.3 7.33 Thereafter 4,784.1 7.59 Total $10,032.4 7.68% Equity Price Risk Equity price risk is the potential economic loss from adverse changes in equity security prices. Although AFG's investment in "Other stocks" is less than 4% of total investments, it is concentrated in a relatively limited number of major positions. While this approach allows management to more closely monitor the companies and industries in which they operate, it does increase risk exposure to adverse price declines in a major position. Annuity Contracts Substantially all of AAG's fixed rate annuity contracts permit AAG to change crediting rates (subject to minimum interest rate guarantees of 3% to 4% per annum) enabling management to react to changes in market interest rates and maintain an adequate spread. Sales of variable rate annuities have not been significant. Projected payments (in millions) of AAG's fixed annuity liabilities at December 31, 1998, were as follows. 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 Remaining Total $660 $620 $560 $500 $450 $2,610 $5,400
About half of AAG's fixed annuity liabilities at December 31, 1998, were two-tier in nature in that policyholders can receive a higher amount if they annuitize rather than surrender their policy, even if the surrender period has expired. Current stated crediting rates on AAG's principal fixed annuity products range from 3% on equity-indexed annuities (before any equity participation) to over 7% on certain new policies (including first year bonus amounts). AAG estimates that its effective weighted-average crediting rate over the next five years will range from 5% to 5.2%. This range reflects actuarial assumptions as to (i) deaths, (ii) the number of policyholders who annuitize and receive higher credited amounts and (iii) the number of policyholders who surrender. Actual experience and changes in actuarial assumptions may result in different effective crediting rates than those above. 29
Debt and Preferred Securities The following table shows scheduled principal payments (in millions) on fixed-rate and variable-rate long-term debt of AFG and its subsidiaries and related weighted average interest rates. At December 31, 1998, there were $325 million of subsidiary trust preferred securities outstanding, none of which are scheduled for redemption during the next five years; weighted average interest rate on these securities is 8.66%. Fixed-Rate Debt Variable-Rate Debt Weighted Weighted Scheduled Average Scheduled Average Principal Interest Principal Interest Payments Rate Payments Rate 1999 $ 90.7 9.69% $ .3 5.86% 2000 49.1 9.85 .2 5.80 2001 1.2 7.13 .1 5.58 2002 1.1 6.81 85.7 5.95 2003 1.1 6.68 27.2 6.09 Thereafter 333.3 7.92 .2 5.58 Total $476.5 8.45% $113.7 5.98% At December 31, 1998, the fair value of fixed-rate debt and variable-rate debt was approximately $490.6 million and $113.7 million, respectively. Investments Approximately 70% of AFG's consolidated assets are invested in marketable securities. A diverse portfolio of primarily publicly traded bonds and notes accounts for nearly 95% of these securities. AFG attempts to optimize investment income while building the value of its portfolio, placing emphasis upon long-term performance. AFG's goal is to maximize return on an ongoing basis rather than focusing on short-term performance. Fixed income investment funds are generally invested in securities with short-term and intermediate-term maturities with an objective of optimizing total return while allowing flexibility to react to changes in market conditions. At December 31, 1998, the average life of AFG's fixed maturities was just under 6 years. Approximately 92% of the fixed maturities held by AFG were rated "investment grade" (credit rating of AAA to BBB) by nationally recognized rating agencies at December 31, 1998. Investment grade securities generally bear lower yields and lower degrees of risk than those that are unrated or noninvestment grade. Management believes that the high quality investment portfolio should generate a stable and predictable investment return. Investments in MBSs represented approximately one-fourth of AFG's fixed maturities at December 31, 1998. AFG invests primarily in MBSs which have a reduced risk of prepayment. In addition, the majority of MBSs held by AFG were purchased at a discount. Management believes that the structure and discounted nature of the MBSs will mitigate the effect of prepayments on earnings over the anticipated life of the MBS portfolio. Approximately 90% of AFG's MBSs are rated "AAA" with substantially all being of investment grade quality. The market in which these securities trade is highly liquid. Aside from interest rate risk, AFG does not believe a material risk (relative to earnings or liquidity) is inherent in holding such investments.
Because most income of the property and casualty insurance subsidiaries has been sheltered from income taxes through 1997, nontaxable municipal bonds represent only a small portion (less than 1%) of the portfolio. Prior to the Mergers, the realization of capital gains, primarily through sales of equity securities, was an integral part of AFG's investment program. Individual securities are sold creating gains or losses as market opportunities exist. Pretax capital gains recognized upon disposition of securities, including investees, during the past five years have been: 1998 - $16 million; 1997 - $57 million; 1996 - $166 million; 1995 - $84 million and 1994 - $50 million. At December 31, 1998, the net unrealized gain (before income taxes) on AFG's fixed maturities and equity securities was $403 million and $223 million, respectively. 30
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - THREE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998 General Pretax earnings before extraordinary items were $205 million in 1998, $320 million in 1997 and $353 million in 1996. Results for 1998 include a pretax charge in the fourth quarter of $214 million attributable to an increase in loss reserves relating to asbestos and environmental coverages ("A&E"), $180 million in pretax gains, primarily from the sale of substantially all of AFG's Commercial lines division and the Funeral Services division, and a $34 million decline in the underwriting results in AFG's property and casualty insurance business (excluding the special A&E charge) due primarily to increased catastrophe losses. Results for 1997 include $91 million in pretax gains, primarily on the sales of affiliates and other securities, and reflect declines of $41 million in underwriting results in AFG's property and casualty insurance business and $24 million in interest expense. Results for 1996 include $203 million in pretax gains primarily on the sales of Citicasters and Buckeye, reduced by a charge of $80 million resulting from a decision to strengthen insurance A&E reserves. Property and Casualty Insurance - Underwriting Following the sale of its Commercial lines division in late 1998, AFG's property and casualty group is engaged primarily in private passenger automobile and specialty insurance businesses. Accordingly, AFG has realigned its property and casualty group into two major business groups: Personal and Specialty. The Personal group consists of the nonstandard auto group along with the preferred/standard private passenger auto and other personal insurance business, formerly included in the Commercial and Personal lines. The nonstandard automobile insurance companies insure risks not typically accepted for standard automobile coverage because of the applicant's driving record, type of vehicle, age or other criteria. The Specialty group includes a highly diversified group of business lines (formerly, Specialty lines) plus the commercial business previously included in the Commercial and Personal lines. Some of the more significant areas are executive liability, inland and ocean marine, U.S.-based operations of Japanese companies, agricultural-related coverages, California workers' compensation, nonprofit liability, general aviation coverages, fidelity and surety bonds, and umbrella and excess coverages. Commercial lines businesses sold included certain coverages in workers' compensation, commercial multi-peril, commercial automobile, and umbrella. To understand the overall profitability of particular lines, the timing of claims payments and the related impact of investment income must be considered. Certain "short-tail" lines of business (primarily property coverages) have quick loss payouts which reduce the time funds are held, thereby limiting investment income earned thereon. On the other hand, "long-tail" lines of business (primarily liability coverages and workers' compensation) have payouts that are either structured over many years or take many years to settle, thereby significantly increasing investment income earned on related premiums received.
Underwriting profitability is measured by the combined ratio which is a sum of the ratios of underwriting losses, loss adjustment expenses, underwriting expenses and policyholder dividends to premiums. When the combined ratio is under 100%, underwriting results are generally considered profitable; when the ratio is over 100%, underwriting results are generally considered unprofitable. The combined ratio does not reflect investment income, other income or federal income taxes. For certain lines of business and products where the credibility of the range of loss projections is less certain (primarily the various specialty businesses listed above), management believes that it is prudent and appropriate to use conservative assumptions until such time as the data, experience and projections have more credibility, as evidenced by data volume, consistency and maturity of the data. While this practice mitigates the risk of adverse development on this business, it does not eliminate it. 31
While AFG desires and seeks to earn an underwriting profit on all of its business, it is not always possible to do so. As a result, AFG attempts to expand in the most profitable areas and control growth or even reduce its involvement in the least profitable ones. Excluding the special $214 million A&E charge in the fourth quarter of 1998, underwriting results of AFG's insurance operations outperformed the industry average for the thirteenth consecutive year. AFG's insurance operations have been able to exceed the industry's results by focusing on growth opportunities in the more profitable areas of the specialty and nonstandard auto businesses. Net written premiums and combined ratios for AFG's property and casualty insurance subsidiaries were as follows (dollars in millions): 1998 1997 1996 Net Written Premiums (GAAP) Personal $1,279 $1,345 $1,384 Specialty 1,312(*) 1,468 1,367 Other Lines 18 45 37 $2,609 $2,858 $2,788 Combined Ratios (GAAP) Personal 97.3% 98.5% 103.9% Specialty 105.0 100.0 88.4 Aggregate (including A&E and other lines) 110.7% 101.4% 102.9% (*) Before a reduction of $138 million for the unearned premium transfer related to the sale of the Commercial lines division. Special A&E Charge Operating results for 1998 and 1996 were adversely impacted by increases in A&E reserves (exposures for which AFG may be liable under general liability policies written years ago) and higher catastrophe losses. A standard insurance measure used in testing the reasonableness of A&E reserves has been the "survival ratio" (reserves divided by average annual paid losses for the preceding three years). Due in part to the greater uncertainties inherent in estimating A&E claims, management has evaluated its survival ratio in relation to those published for the industry. Based primarily on industry survival ratios published in mid-1996, AFG increased A&E reserves of its discontinued insurance lines by $120 million in 1996 by recording a third quarter, noncash pretax charge of $80 million and reallocating $40 million, or approximately 2%, of its Specialty group reserves (approximately $2.1 billion at December 31, 1996). Under the agreement covering the sale of its Commercial lines division in 1998, AFG retained liabilities for certain A&E exposures. Prompted by this retention and as part of the continuing process of monitoring reserves, AFG began a thorough study of its A&E exposures. Based on this study and observations of industry trends in this regard, AFG decided that the survival ratio may not be the best basis for measuring ultimate A&E exposures. AFG's study was reviewed by independent actuaries who used state of the art actuarial techniques that have wide acceptance in the industry. The methods used involved sampling and statistical modeling incorporating external data bases that supplement the internal information. AFG recorded a fourth quarter charge of $214 million increasing A&E reserves at December 31, 1998, to approximately $866 million (before deducting reinsurance recoverables of $241 million), an amount which, in the opinion of management, makes a reasonable provision for AFG's ultimate liability for A&E claims.
Personal The Personal group's net written premiums decreased $65.9 million (5%) during 1998 due primarily to stronger price competition in the personal automobile market. The combined ratio improved in 1998 due to both lower loss experience and a 6% reduction in underwriting expenses. The Personal group's net written premiums decreased $39.6 million (3%) during 1997 due primarily to a reinsurance agreement, effective January 1, 1997, under which 80% of all AFG's homeowners' business was reinsured. Excluding the impact of 32
the reinsurance agreement, premiums increased 4%. Volume increases in the California nonstandard auto business resulting from enactment of legislation which requires drivers to provide proof of insurance in order to obtain a valid permit contributed to a growth in personal automobile business. Rate increases during 1995 and early 1996, primarily in the nonstandard auto group, contributed to the improvement in the combined ratio in 1997. Specialty The Specialty group's net written premiums decreased $156 million (11%) during 1998 due primarily to the impact of a reinsurance agreement whereby approximately 30% of AFG's California workers' compensation premiums were ceded and the sale of the Commercial lines division. Excluding these operations, the net written premiums of the other specialty businesses were essentially the same as a year ago. Underwriting results worsened from the comparable period in 1997 due to losses from the midwestern storms in the second quarter of 1998 compared to milder weather conditions during 1997 and unusually good results in 1997 in certain other lines. Net written premiums increased $101.8 million (7%) in 1997 due primarily to premiums recorded by a newly acquired aviation division and the return of premiums in 1996 related to the withdrawal from a voluntary pool. The Specialty group had a combined ratio of 100% in 1997 despite a significant decline in the results of AFG's California workers' compensation business relating to (i) deteriorating underwriting margins on business written in 1996 and 1997, (ii) reserve reductions in 1996 primarily for business written prior to 1995 in response to a fundamental change in the California workers' compensation market and actuarial evaluations and (iii) several current year commercial casualty losses as well as adverse development in certain prior year claims. The Specialty group's combined ratio was unusually low in 1996 due primarily to the reallocation of $40 million in reserves to A&E reserves (a combined ratio impact of 3.0 percentage points) and the 1996 reductions in California workers' compensation reserves mentioned above. Life, Accident and Health Premiums and Benefits The increase in life, accident and health premiums and benefits in 1998 reflects primarily AAG's acquisition of Great American Life Assurance Company of Puerto Rico, Inc. in December 1997. Life, accident and health premiums and benefits increased in 1997 due primarily to an increase in pre-need life insurance sales by AAG's Funeral Services division which was sold in 1998. Investment Income Changes in investment income reflect fluctuations in market rates and changes in average invested assets. 1998 compared to 1997 Investment income increased $14.8 million (2%) from 1997 due primarily to an increase in the average amount of investments held partially offset by decreasing market interest rates. 1997 compared to 1996 Investment income increased $22.5 million (3%) from 1996 due primarily to an increase in the average amount of investments held partially offset by decreasing market interest rates. Investee Corporation Equity in net losses of investee corporation represents AFG's proportionate share of the results of Chiquita Brands International. Equity in net losses excludes AFG's share of amounts included in extraordinary items; the amount for 1996 includes $1.5 million in earnings from Citicasters which was sold in 1996.
AFG recorded equity in net losses of Chiquita of $13.2 million, $5.6 million and $18.4 million in 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. Chiquita's loss attributable to common shareholders (before extraordinary items) was $35.5 million, $16.6 million and $39.7 million during these same periods. Chiquita's results for 1998 include pretax writedowns and costs of $74 million resulting from widespread flooding in Honduras and Guatemala caused by Hurricane Mitch. Excluding these unusual items, Chiquita's operating income improved $52 million in 1998 compared to 1997 due primarily to lower delivered product costs for bananas on higher worldwide volume, which more than offset the adverse effect of lower banana pricing. 33
Chiquita's results for 1997 were adversely affected by a stronger dollar in relation to major European currencies (mitigated in part by the company's foreign currency hedging program) and by increased banana production costs resulting primarily from widespread flooding in 1996. These factors more than offset the benefit of higher local currency banana pricing in Europe during the second half of the year. Chiquita's results for 1996 include pretax writedowns and costs of $70 million resulting from (i) industry-wide flooding in Costa Rica, Guatemala and Honduras, (ii) certain strategic undertakings designed to achieve further long-term reductions in the delivered product cost of Chiquita bananas and (iii) certain claims relating to prior European Union quota restructuring actions. Gains on Sales of Investees The gains on sales of investees in 1998 and 1997 represent pretax gains to AFG as a result of Chiquita's public issuance of shares of its common stock. The gain on sale of investee in 1996 represents a pretax gain, before $6.5 million of minority interest, on the sale of Citicasters common stock. Gains on Sales of Subsidiaries The gains on sales of subsidiaries in 1998 include (i) a pretax gain of $152.6 million on the sale of the Commercial lines division, (ii) a pretax gain of $21.6 million on AAG's sale of its Funeral Services division and (iii) a charge of $15.5 million relating to operations expected to be sold or otherwise disposed of. The gains on sales of subsidiaries in 1997 include (i) a pretax gain of $49.9 million on the sale of MDI and (ii) a charge of $17 million relating to operations expected to be sold or otherwise disposed of. The gains on sales of subsidiaries in 1996 include a pretax gain of $33.9 million on the sale of Buckeye Management Company and the settlement of litigation related to a subsidiary sold in 1993. Other Income 1998 compared to 1997 Other income increased $10.3 million (9%) in 1998 due primarily to income from the sale of operating real estate assets and lease residuals which more than offset the absence of revenues from a noninsurance subsidiary which was sold in the fourth quarter of 1997. 1997 compared to 1996 Other income decreased $14.9 million (11%) in 1997 compared to 1996 due primarily to the absence of revenues from a noninsurance subsidiary which was sold in the first quarter of 1997. Annuity Benefits For GAAP financial reporting purposes, annuity receipts are accounted for as interest-bearing deposits ("annuity benefits accumulated") rather than as revenues. Under these contracts, policyholders' funds are credited with interest on a tax-deferred basis until withdrawn by the policyholder. Annuity benefits reflect amounts accrued on annuity policyholders' funds accumulated. The rate at which AAG credits interest on most of its annuity policyholders' funds is subject to change based on management's judgment of market conditions. As a result, management has been able to react to changes in market interest rates and maintain a desired interest rate spread. While AAG believes the recent interest rate and stock market environment over the last several years has contributed to an increase in annuitizations and surrenders, the company's persistency rate remains approximately 88%. However, a continuation of the current interest rate environment could adversely affect this rate.
Fixed annuity receipts totaled approximately $480 million in 1998, $490 million in 1997 and $570 million in 1996. Annuity receipts in 1997 reflect the decrease of business written by a single agency from $99 million in 1996 to $23 million in 1997. AAG is no longer writing business through this agency. AAG believes that the success of the stock market and the recent interest rate environment have also resulted in decreased sales and persistency of traditional fixed annuities. Sales of annuity products linked to the performance of the stock market (equity-indexed and variable annuities) helped offset this decrease. 34
Annuity benefits decreased $17.2 million (6%) from 1997 due primarily to decreases in crediting rates and changes in actuarial assumptions. Annuity benefits increased $7 million (3%) in 1997 due primarily to an increase in average annuity benefits accumulated partially offset by decreases in crediting rates. Interest on Borrowed Money Changes in interest expense result from fluctuations in market rates as well as changes in borrowings. AFG has generally financed its borrowings on a long-term basis which has resulted in higher current costs. 1998 compared to 1997 Interest expense increased $5.4 million (10%) from 1997 due primarily to an increase in outstanding indebtedness. 1997 compared to 1996 Interest expense decreased $23.7 million (31%) from 1996. The decrease reflects significant debt reductions in 1996. Minority Interest Expense Minority interest expense for 1996 includes $6.5 million related to the sale of Citicasters shares held by AFEI. Dividends paid by subsidiaries on their preferred securities have varied as the securities were issued and retired over the past three years. Other Operating and General Expenses 1998 compared to 1997 Other operating and general expenses increased $10.8 million (3%) in 1998 due primarily to inclusion of the operations of Great American Life Assurance Company of Puerto Rico following its acquisition in late 1997 which more than offset the absence of expenses from a noninsurance subsidiary which was sold in the fourth quarter of 1997. 1997 compared to 1996 Operating and general expenses in 1997 include third quarter charges of $5.5 million relating to an arbitration settlement and $4.0 million relating to relocating a subsidiary's operations to Cincinnati. These charges were more than offset by a reduction caused by the absence of expenses from a noninsurance subsidiary which was sold in the first quarter of 1997. Income Taxes See Note J to the Financial Statements for an analysis of items affecting AFG's effective tax rate. Recent Accounting Standards The following accounting standards have been implemented by AFG in 1997 or 1998 or will be implemented in 1999 or 2000. The implementation of these standards is discussed under various subheadings of Note A to the Financial Statements (segment information is discussed in Note C); effects of each are shown in the relevant Notes. Implementation of Statement of Position ("SOP") 98-5 in the first quarter of 1999 and Statement of Financial Account Standard ("SFAS") No. 133 in the first quarter of 2000 is not expected to have a significant effect on AFG. Accounting Standard Subject of Standard (Year Implemented) Reference SFAS #128 Earnings Per Share (1997) "Earnings Per Share" SFAS #130 Comprehensive Income (1998) "Comprehensive Income" SFAS #131 Segment Information (1998) "Segment Information" SFAS #133 Derivatives (2000) "Derivatives" SOP 98-5 Start-up Costs (1999) "Start-up Costs" Other standards issued in recent years did not apply to AFG or had only negligible effects on AFG.
ITEM 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk The information required by Item 7A is included in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. 35
ITEM 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Page Report of Independent Auditors F-1 Consolidated Balance Sheet: December 31, 1998 and 1997 F-2 Consolidated Statement of Earnings: Years ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996 F-3 Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders' Equity Years ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996 F-4 Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows: Years ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996 F-5 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-6 "Selected Quarterly Financial Data" has been included in Note M to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Please refer to "Forward Looking Statements" following the Index in front of this Form 10-K. PART III The information required by the following Items will be included in AFG's definitive Proxy Statement for the 1999 Annual Meeting of Shareholders which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after the end of Registrant's fiscal year and is incorporated herein by reference. ITEM 10 Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant ITEM 11 Executive Compensation ITEM 12 Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management ITEM 13 Certain Relationships and Related Transactions 36
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS Board of Directors American Financial Group, Inc. We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of American Financial Group, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1998 and 1997, and the related consolidated statements of earnings, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1998. Our audits also included the financial statement schedules listed in the Index at Item 14(a). These financial statements and schedules are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedules based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit 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 consolidated financial position of American Financial Group, Inc. and subsidiaries at December 31, 1998 and 1997, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1998, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein. ERNST & YOUNG LLP Cincinnati, Ohio March 19, 1999 F-1
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (Dollars In Thousands) December 31, 1998 1997 Assets: Cash and short-term investments $ 296,721 $ 257,117 Investments: Fixed maturities: Available for sale - at market (amortized cost - $9,921,344 and $7,225,736) 10,324,344 7,532,836 Held to maturity - at amortized cost (market - $3,419,000) - 3,328,082 Other stocks - principally at market (cost - $207,345 and $153,322) 430,345 446,222 Investment in investee corporation 192,138 200,714 Policy loans 220,496 240,955 Real estate and other investments 271,915 283,979 Total investments 11,439,238 12,032,788 Recoverables from reinsurers and prepaid reinsurance premiums 1,973,895 998,743 Agents' balances and premiums receivable 618,198 691,005 Deferred acquisition costs 464,047 521,898 Other receivables 306,821 243,330 Assets held in separate accounts 120,049 300,491 Prepaid expenses, deferred charges and other assets 344,465 410,569 Cost in excess of net assets acquired 281,769 299,408 $15,845,203 $15,755,349 Liabilities and Capital: Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses $ 4,773,377 $ 4,225,336 Unearned premiums 1,232,848 1,328,910 Annuity benefits accumulated 5,449,633 5,528,111 Life, accident and health reserves 341,595 709,899 Long-term debt: Holding companies 415,536 386,661 Subsidiaries 176,896 194,084 Liabilities related to separate accounts 120,049 300,491 Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities 1,097,316 906,151 Total liabilities 13,607,250 13,579,643 Minority interest 521,776 512,997 Shareholders' Equity: Common Stock, no par value - 200,000,000 shares authorized - 60,928,322 and 61,048,904 shares outstanding 60,928 61,049 Capital surplus 770,721 775,689 Retained earnings 527,028 477,071 Net unrealized gain on marketable securities, net of deferred income taxes 357,500 348,900 Total shareholders' equity 1,716,177 1,662,709 $15,845,203 $15,755,349 See notes to consolidated financial statements. F-2
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF EARNINGS (In Thousands, Except Per Share Data) <TABLE> <CAPTION> Year ended December 31, 1998 1997 1996 <S> <C> <C> <C> Income: Property and casualty insurance premiums $2,698,738 $2,824,381 $2,844,512 Life, accident and health premiums 170,365 121,506 103,552 Investment income 883,700 868,946 846,428 Equity in net losses of investees (13,198) (5,564) (16,955) Realized gains (losses) on sales of: Securities 6,275 46,006 (3,470) Investees 9,420 11,428 169,138 Subsidiaries 158,673 33,602 36,837 Other investments 5,293 - - Other income 130,768 120,418 135,355 4,050,034 4,020,723 4,115,397 Costs and Expenses: Property and casualty insurance: Losses and loss adjustment expenses 2,001,783 2,075,616 2,051,421 Special asbestos and environmental charge 213,500 - 80,000 Commissions and other underwriting expenses 772,917 790,324 793,800 Annuity benefits 261,666 278,829 271,821 Life, accident and health benefits 131,652 110,082 92,315 Interest charges on borrowed money 57,682 52,331 76,052 Minority interest expense 55,798 54,456 47,821 Other operating and general expenses 350,282 339,475 348,923 3,845,280 3,701,113 3,762,153 Earnings before income taxes and extraordinary items 204,754 319,610 353,244 Provision for income taxes 79,584 120,127 91,277 Earnings before extraordinary items 125,170 199,483 261,967 Extraordinary items - loss on prepayment of debt (770) (7,233) (28,667) Net Earnings $ 124,400 $ 192,250 $ 233,300 Premium over stated value paid on redemption of preferred stock - (153,333) - Net earnings available to Common Shares $ 124,400 $ 38,917 $ 233,300
Basic earnings (loss) per Common Share: Before extraordinary items $2.04 $3.34 $4.31 Loss on prepayment of debt (.01) (.12) (.47) Premium on redemption of preferred stock - (2.57) - Net earnings available to Common Shares $2.03 $ .65 $3.84 Diluted earnings (loss) per Common Share: Before extraordinary items $2.01 $3.28 $4.26 Loss on prepayment of debt (.01) (.12) (.47) Premium on redemption of preferred stock - (2.52) - Net earnings available to Common Shares $2.00 $ .64 $3.79 Average number of Common Shares: Basic 61,222 59,660 60,801 Diluted 62,185 60,748 61,494 </TABLE> See notes to consolidated financial statements. F-3
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (Dollars In Thousands) <TABLE> <CAPTION> Common Stock Unrealized Common and Capital Retained Gain on Comprehensive Shares Surplus Earnings Securities Income <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> Balance at December 31, 1995 60,139,303 $801,494 $387,143 $251,500 Net earnings - - 233,300 - $233,300 Dividends on Common Stock - - (60,727) - - Shares issued: Exercise of stock options 664,639 14,837 - - - Dividend reinvestment plan 10,491 342 - - - Employee stock purchase plan 81,041 2,551 - - - Portion of bonuses paid in stock 4,300 131 - - - Directors fees paid in stock 1,299 46 - - - Conversion of Preferred Stock 446,799 8,908 - - - Shares repurchased (276,246) (8,563) - - - Retirement of AFC Preferred Stock - (14,388) - - - Change in unrealized - - - (63,500) (63,500) Other - 1,363 - - - Balance at December 31, 1996 61,071,626 806,721 559,716 188,000 $169,800 Net earnings - - 192,250 - $192,250 Dividends on Common Stock - - (59,589) - - Shares issued: Exercise of stock options 413,312 11,292 - - - Dividend reinvestment plan 8,207 314 - - - Employee stock purchase plan 65,692 2,553 - - - Portion of bonuses paid in stock 40,500 1,521 - - - Directors fees paid in stock 1,662 68 - - - AFEI merger 2,122,548 51,926 - - - Shares repurchased (2,674,643) (35,347) (61,973) - - Retirement of AFC Preferred Stock - - (153,333) - - Capital transactions of subsidiaries - (1,960) - - - Change in unrealized - - - 160,900 160,900 Other - (350) - - - Balance at December 31, 1997 61,048,904 836,738 477,071 348,900 $353,150 Net earnings - - 124,400 - $124,400 Dividends on Common Stock - - (61,222) - - Shares issued: Exercise of stock options 296,416 8,288 - - - Dividend reinvestment plan 11,021 432 - - - Employee stock purchase plan 68,177 2,689 - - - 401-K plan company match 44,035 1,783 - - - Portion of bonuses paid in stock 20,300 816 - - - Directors fees paid in stock 2,280 90 - - - Shares repurchased (562,811) (7,768) (13,221) - - Capital transactions of subsidiaries - (11,703) - - - Change in unrealized - - - 8,600 8,600 Other - 284 - - - Balance at December 31, 1998 60,928,322 $831,649 $527,028 $357,500 $133,000 </TABLE> See notes to consolidated financial statements. F-4
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (In Thousands) <TABLE> <CAPTION> Year ended December 31, 1998 1997 1996 <S> <C> <C> <C> Operating Activities: Net earnings $ 124,400 $ 192,250 $ 233,300 Adjustments: Extraordinary items 770 7,233 28,667 Special asbestos and environmental charge 213,500 - 80,000 Depreciation and amortization 106,041 76,434 79,425 Annuity benefits 261,666 278,829 271,821 Equity in net losses of investee corporations 13,198 5,564 16,955 Changes in reserves on assets 14,020 7,610 5,656 Realized gains on investing activities (205,659) (103,157) (198,676) Deferred annuity and life policy acquisition costs (117,202) (72,634) (68,511) Decrease (increase) in reinsurance and other receivables (349,183) (171,690) 96,387 Decrease (increase) in other assets (5,575) 23,763 92,052 Increase (decrease) in insurance claims and reserves 176,552 206,900 (70,829) Increase (decrease) in other liabilities 153,903 (28,003) (212,720) Increase in minority interest 5,731 22,654 18,206 Dividends from investees 4,799 4,799 4,799 Other, net (11,516) (24,549) (3,552) 385,445 426,003 372,980 Investing Activities: Purchases of and additional investments in: Fixed maturity investments (2,155,192) (2,555,060) (2,128,553) Equity securities (78,604) (37,107) (10,528) Subsidiaries (30,325) (118,713) - Real estate, property and equipment (66,819) (64,917) (38,035) Maturities and redemptions of fixed maturity investments 1,248,775 897,786 617,272 Sales of: Fixed maturity investments 795,520 1,407,598 881,114 Equity securities 28,850 104,960 53,195 Investees and subsidiaries 164,589 32,500 284,277 Real estate, property and equipment 53,962 23,289 7,981 Cash and short-term investments of acquired (former) subsidiaries (21,141) 2,714 (4,589) Decrease (increase) in other investments (15,135) (12,892) 315 (75,520) (319,842) (337,551)
Financing Activities: Fixed annuity receipts 480,572 493,708 573,741 Annuity surrenders, benefits and withdrawals (690,388) (607,174) (517,881) Additional long-term borrowings 262,537 284,150 288,775 Reductions of long-term debt (251,837) (230,688) (582,288) Issuances of Common Stock 10,236 13,845 26,296 Repurchases of Common Stock (20,651) (97,320) (8,563) Issuances of trust preferred securities - 149,353 168,876 Issuances of subsidiary preferred stock - - 16,800 Repurchases of subsidiary preferred stock - (243,939) (36,912) Cash dividends paid (60,790) (59,275) (60,385) (270,321) (297,340) (131,541) Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Short-term Investments 39,604 (191,179) (96,112) Cash and short-term investments at beginning of period 257,117 448,296 544,408 Cash and short-term investments at end of period $ 296,721 $ 257,117 $ 448,296 </TABLE> See notes to consolidated financial statements. F-5
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS INDEX TO NOTES A. Accounting Policies H. Minority Interest B. Acquisitions and Sales of Subsidiaries I. Shareholders' Equity and Investees J. Income Taxes C. Segments of Operations K. Extraordinary Items D. Investments L. Commitments and Contingencies E. Investment in Investee Corporations M. Quarterly Operating Results F. Cost in Excess of Net Assets Acquired N. Insurance G. Long-Term Debt O. Additional Information P. Subsequent Event Please refer to "Forward Looking Statements" following the Index in front of this Form 10-K. A. Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of American Financial Group, Inc. ("AFG") and its subsidiaries. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years to conform to the current year's presentation. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. All acquisitions have been treated as purchases. The results of operations of companies since their formation or acquisition are included in the consolidated financial statements. The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Changes in circumstances could cause actual results to differ materially from those estimates. Investments Debt securities are classified as "held to maturity" and reported at amortized cost if AFG has the positive intent and ability to hold them to maturity. Debt and equity securities are classified as "available for sale" and reported at fair value with unrealized gains and losses reported as a separate component of shareholders' equity if the securities are not classified as held to maturity or bought and held principally for selling in the near term. At December 31, 1998, AFG reclassified "held to maturity" securities with an amortized cost of $2.6 billion to "available for sale" to give management greater flexibility to react to changing market conditions. This reclassification resulted in an increase of $98.8 million in the carrying value of fixed maturity investments and (after effects of income taxes, minority interest, and adjustments related to deferred policy acquisition costs) an increase of $49.6 million in shareholders'equity. The transfer had no effect on net earnings. Short-term investments are carried at cost; loans receivable are carried primarily at the aggregate unpaid balance. Premiums and discounts on mortgage-backed securities are amortized over their expected average lives using the interest method.
Gains or losses on sales of securities are recognized at the time of disposition with the amount of gain or loss determined on the specific identification basis. When a decline in the value of a specific investment is considered to be other than temporary, a provision for impairment is charged to earnings and the carrying value of that investment is reduced. Investment in Investee Corporation Investments in securities of 20%- to 50%-owned companies are generally carried at cost, adjusted for AFG's proportionate share of their undistributed earnings or losses. F-6
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Cost in Excess of Net Assets Acquired The excess of cost of subsidiaries and investees over AFG's equity in the underlying net assets ("goodwill") is being amortized over 40 years. Insurance As discussed under "Reinsurance" below, unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses and unearned premiums have not been reduced for reinsurance recoverable. Reinsurance In the normal course of business, AFG's insurance subsidiaries cede reinsurance to other companies to diversify risk and limit maximum loss arising from large claims. To the extent that any reinsuring companies are unable to meet obligations under the agreements covering reinsurance ceded, AFG's insurance subsidiaries would remain liable. Amounts recoverable from reinsurers are estimated in a manner consistent with the claim liability associated with the reinsured policies. AFG's insurance subsidiaries report as assets (a) the estimated reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses, including an estimate for losses incurred but not reported, and (b) amounts paid to reinsurers applicable to the unexpired terms of policies in force. AFG's insurance subsidiaries also assume reinsurance from other companies. Income on reinsurance assumed is recognized based on reports received from ceding reinsurers. Deferred Acquisition Costs Policy acquisition costs (principally commissions, premium taxes and other underwriting expenses) related to the production of new business are deferred ("DPAC"). For the property and casualty companies, the deferral of acquisition costs is limited based upon their recoverability without any consideration for anticipated investment income. DPAC is charged against income ratably over the terms of the related policies. For the annuity companies, DPAC is amortized, with interest, in relation to the present value of expected gross profits on the policies. Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses The net liabilities stated for unpaid claims and for expenses of investigation and adjustment of unpaid claims are based upon (a) the accumulation of case estimates for losses reported prior to the close of the accounting period on the direct business written; (b) estimates received from ceding reinsurers and insurance pools and associations; (c) estimates of unreported losses based on past experience; (d) estimates based on experience of expenses for investigating and adjusting claims and (e) the current state of the law and coverage litigation. These liabilities are subject to the impact of changes in claim amounts and frequency and other factors. In spite of the variability inherent in such estimates, management believes that the liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses are adequate. Changes in estimates of the liabilities for losses and loss adjustment expenses are reflected in the Statement of Earnings in the period in which determined. Annuity Benefits Accumulated Annuity receipts and benefit payments are recorded as increases or decreases in "annuity benefits accumulated" rather than as revenue and expense. Increases in this liability for interest credited are charged to expense and decreases for surrender charges are credited to other income. F-7
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Life, Accident and Health Reserves Liabilities for future policy benefits under traditional life, accident and health policies are computed using the net level premium method. Computations are based on anticipated investment yield, mortality, morbidity and surrenders and include provisions for unfavorable deviations. Reserves are modified as necessary to reflect actual experience and developing trends. Assets Held In and Liabilities Related to Separate Accounts Separate account assets and related liabilities represent variable annuity deposits and, in 1997, include deposits maintained by several banks under a tax-deferred annuity program previously offered by American Annuity Group, Inc.'s ("AAG's") Funeral Services division, which was sold in 1998 (see Note B). Premium Recognition Property and casualty premiums are earned over the terms of the policies on a pro rata basis. Unearned premiums represent that portion of premiums written which is applicable to the unexpired terms of policies in force. On reinsurance assumed from other insurance companies or written through various underwriting organizations, unearned premiums are based on reports received from such companies and organizations. For traditional life, accident and health products, premiums are recognized as revenue when legally collectible from policyholders. For interest-sensitive life and universal life products, premiums are recorded in a policyholder account which is reflected as a liability. Revenue is recognized as amounts are assessed against the policyholder account for mortality coverage and contract expenses. Policyholder Dividends Dividends payable to policyholders are included in "Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities" and represent estimates of amounts payable on participating policies which share in favorable underwriting results. The estimate is accrued during the period in which the related premium is earned. Changes in estimates are included in income in the period determined. Policyholder dividends do not become legal liabilities unless and until declared by the boards of directors of the insurance companies. Minority Interest For balance sheet purposes, minority interest represents the interests of noncontrolling shareholders in AFG subsidiaries, including American Financial Corporation ("AFC") preferred stock and preferred securities issued by trust subsidiaries of AFG. For income statement purposes, minority interest expense represents those shareholders' interest in the earnings of AFG subsidiaries as well as AFC preferred dividends and accrued distributions on the trust preferred securities. Issuances of Stock by Subsidiaries and Investees Changes in AFG's equity in a subsidiary or an investee caused by issuances of the subsidiary's or investee's stock are accounted for as gains or losses where such issuance is not a part of a broader reorganization.
Income Taxes AFC files consolidated federal income tax returns which include all 80%-owned U.S. subsidiaries, except for certain life insurance subsidiaries and their subsidiaries. Because holders of AFC Preferred Stock hold in excess of 20% of AFC's voting rights, AFG (parent) and its direct subsidiary, AFC Holding Company ("AFC Holding" or "AFCH") own less than 80% of AFC, and therefore, file separate returns. Deferred income taxes are calculated using the liability method. Under this method, deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases and are measured using enacted tax rates. Deferred tax assets are recognized if it is more likely than not that a benefit will be realized. F-8
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Stock-Based Compensation As permitted under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," AFG accounts for stock options and other stock-based compensation plans using the intrinsic value based method prescribed by Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees." Benefit Plans AFG provides retirement benefits to qualified employees of participating companies through contributory and noncontributory defined contribution plans contained in AFG's Retirement and Savings Plan. Under the retirement portion of the plan, company contributions (approximately 6% of covered compensation in 1998) are invested primarily in securities of AFG and affiliates. Under the savings portion of the plan, AFG matches a specific portion of employee contributions. Contributions to benefit plans are charged against earnings in the year for which they are declared. AFG and many of its subsidiaries provide health care and life insurance benefits to eligible retirees. AFG also provides postemployment benefits to former or inactive employees (primarily those on disability) who were not deemed retired under other company plans. The projected future cost of providing these benefits is expensed over the period the employees earn such benefits. Under AFG's stock option plan, options are granted to officers, directors and key employees at exercise prices equal to the fair value of the shares at the dates of grant. No compensation expense is recognized for stock option grants. Start-up Costs Certain costs associated with introducing new products and distribution channels are deferred by AAG and are amortized on a straight-line basis over 5 years. Statement of Position ("SOP") 98-5, "Reporting on the Costs of Start-Up Activities," was issued during the second quarter of 1998 and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1998. The SOP requires that (i) costs of start-up activities be expensed as incurred and (ii) unamortized balances of previously deferred costs be expensed no later than the first quarter of 1999 and reported as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle. AAG had approximately $7 million in capitalized start-up costs at December 31, 1998.
Derivatives The Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities," during the second quarter of 1998. SFAS No. 133 is effective for fiscal periods (both years and quarters) beginning after June 15, 1999. SFAS No. 133 establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments, including derivative instruments that are embedded in other contracts, and for hedging activities. SFAS No. 133 requires the recognition of all derivatives (both assets and liabilities) in the statement of financial position at fair value. Changes in fair value of derivative instruments are included in current income or as a component of comprehensive income (outside current income) depending on the type of derivative. Implementation of SFAS No. 133 is not expected to have a material effect on AFG's financial position or results of operations. Earnings Per Share In 1997, AFG implemented SFAS No. 128, "Earnings Per Share." This standard requires the presentation of basic and diluted earnings per share. Basic earnings per share is calculated using the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share include the effect of the assumed exercise of dilutive common stock options. Per share amounts for prior periods were restated. F-9
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Comprehensive Income Effective January 1, 1998, AFG implemented SFAS No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income." SFAS No. 130 uses the term "comprehensive income" to describe the total of net earnings plus other comprehensive income. For AFG, other comprehensive income represents the change in net unrealized gain on marketable securities net of deferred taxes. Implementation of this statement had no impact on net earnings or shareholders' equity. Appropriate data for prior periods has been added to conform to the current presentation. Statement of Cash Flows For cash flow purposes, "investing activities" are defined as making and collecting loans and acquiring and disposing of debt or equity instruments and property and equipment. "Financing activities" include obtaining resources from owners and providing them with a return on their investments, borrowing money and repaying amounts borrowed. Annuity receipts, benefits and withdrawals are also reflected as financing activities. All other activities are considered "operating". Short-term investments having original maturities of three months or less when purchased are considered to be cash equivalents for purposes of the financial statements. Fair Value of Financial Instruments Methods and assumptions used in estimating fair values are described in Note O to the financial statements. These fair values represent point-in-time estimates of value that might not be particularly relevant in predicting AFG's future earnings or cash flows. B. Acquisitions and Sales of Subsidiaries and Investees Commercial lines division In December 1998, AFG completed the sale of substantially all of its Commercial lines division to Ohio Casualty Corporation for $300 million plus warrants to purchase 3 million shares of Ohio Casualty common stock. AFG retained $300 million in securities it would otherwise have transferred to Ohio Casualty in connection with the reinsurance of business assumed by Ohio Casualty. For accounting purposes, the insurance liabilities ceded to Ohio Casualty and the sale of the other net assets are required to be accounted for separately. AFG deferred a gain of $103 million on the insurance ceded to Ohio Casualty and recognized a pretax gain of $153 million on the sale of the other net assets. The deferred gain is being recognized over the estimated remaining settlement period (weighted average of 4.25 years) of the claims ceded. AFG may receive up to an additional $40 million in the year 2000 based upon the retention and growth of the insurance businesses acquired by Ohio Casualty. The commercial lines sold generated net written premiums of approximately $250 million in 1998 (11 months), $315 million in 1997 and $314 million in 1996.
Funeral Services division In September 1998, AAG sold its Funeral Services division for approximately $165 million in cash. The division held assets of approximately $1 billion at the sale date. AFG realized a third quarter pretax gain of $21.6 million, before $2.7 million of minority interest, on this sale. Chiquita During 1997 and 1998, Chiquita issued shares of its common stock in acquisitions of operating businesses. AFG recorded pretax gains of $11.4 million in the fourth quarter of 1997, $7.7 million in the first quarter of 1998 and $1.7 million in the second quarter of 1998 representing the excess of AFG's equity in Chiquita following the issuances of its common stock over AFG's previously recorded carrying value. F-10
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Millennium Dynamics, Inc. In December 1997, AFG completed the sale of the assets of its software solutions and consulting services subsidiary, Millennium Dynamics, Inc. ("MDI"), to a subsidiary of Peritus Software Services, Inc. for $30 million in cash and 2,175,000 shares of Peritus common stock. AFG recognized a pretax gain of approximately $50 million on the sale. Peritus experienced difficulties in 1998, wrote off substantial amounts of its assets, and reported significant losses throughout the year. As a result, AFG recognized a pretax realized loss of $26.9 million and reduced its carrying value of Peritus shares to a nominal value at December 31, 1998. American Financial Enterprises, Inc. ("AFEI") In December 1997, AFG and AFEI engaged in a merger transaction whereby the shares of AFEI not held by AFG were acquired by AFG for approximately $23 million in cash and approximately 2.1 million shares of its common stock. Citicasters In 1996, AFG sold its investment in Citicasters to Jacor Communications for approximately $220 million in cash plus warrants to purchase Jacor common stock. AFG realized a pretax gain of approximately $169 million, before minority interest of $6.5 million, on the sale. Buckeye In 1996, AFG sold Buckeye Management Company to Buckeye's management (including an AFG director who resigned in March 1996) and employees for $60 million in cash, net of transaction costs. AFG recognized a $33.9 million pretax gain on the sale. In connection with the sale, the AFG director converted his AFG convertible preferred stock into 446,799 shares of AFG Common Stock and sold such shares in the open market. C. Segments of Operations Following the sale of substantially all of its Commercial lines division, AFG's property and casualty group is engaged primarily in private passenger automobile and specialty insurance businesses. The Personal group consists of the nonstandard auto group along with the preferred/standard private passenger auto and other personal insurance business, formerly included in the Commercial and Personal lines. The Specialty group now includes a highly diversified group of specialty business units (formerly, Specialty lines) plus the commercial business previously included in the Commercial and Personal lines. AFG's annuity and life business markets primarily retirement products as well as life and supplemental health insurance. AFG's businesses operate throughout the United States. In addition, AFG has owned significant portions of the voting equity securities of certain companies (investee corporation - see Note E). Effective January 1, 1998, AFG implemented SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information." SFAS No. 131 requires segment information to be reported based on how management internally evaluates the operating performance of its business units. Implementation of this standard had no impact on AFG's financial position or results of operations. F-11
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED The following tables (in thousands) show AFG's assets, revenues and operating profit (loss) by significant business segment. Operating profit (loss) represents total revenues less operating expenses. 1998 1997 1996 Assets Property and casualty insurance (a) $ 8,278,898 $ 7,517,856 $ 7,116,088 Annuities and life 7,174,544 7,693,463 7,009,127 Other 199,623 343,316 726,252 15,653,065 15,554,635 14,851,467 Investment in investees 192,138 200,714 199,651 $15,845,203 $15,755,349 $15,051,118 Revenues (b) Property and casualty insurance: Premiums earned: Personal $ 1,289,689 $ 1,356,642 $ 1,447,751 Specialty 1,371,509 1,429,143 1,355,906 Other lines 37,540 38,596 40,855 2,698,738 2,824,381 2,844,512 Investment and other income 643,106 448,849 500,897 3,341,844 3,273,230 3,345,409 Annuities and life (c) 729,854 638,348 585,079 Other (8,466) 114,709 201,864 4,063,232 4,026,287 4,132,352 Equity in net losses of investees (13,198) (5,564) (16,955) $ 4,050,034 $ 4,020,723 $ 4,115,397 Operating Profit (Loss) Property and casualty insurance: Underwriting: Personal $ 34,029 $ 21,235 ($ 55,989) Specialty (67,131) (324) 155,405 Other lines (d) (256,360) (62,470) (180,125) (289,462) (41,559) (80,709) Investment and other income 514,736 318,613 392,250 225,274 277,054 311,541 Annuities and life 128,074 93,794 77,119 Other (e) (135,396) (45,674) (18,461) 217,952 325,174 370,199 Equity in net losses of investees (13,198) (5,564) (16,955) $ 204,754 $ 319,610 $ 353,244 (a) Not allocable to segments. (b) Revenues include sales of products and services as well as other income earned by the respective segments. (c) Represents primarily investment income. (d) Represents primarily losses related to asbestos and other environmental matters ("A&E"). (e) Includes holding company expenses. F-12
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED D. Investments Fixed maturities and other stocks at December 31, consisted of the following (in millions): <TABLE> <CAPTION> 1998 Available for Sale Held to Maturity Amortized Market Gross Unrealized Amortized Market Gross Unrealized Cost Value Gains Losses Cost Value Gains Losses <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> Fixed maturities: United States Government and government agencies and authorities $ 507.5 $ 537.6 $ 30.2 ($ .1) $ - $ - $ - $ - States, municipalities and political subdivisions 137.0 144.8 7.8 - - - - - Foreign government 67.3 71.0 3.8 (.1) - - - - Public utilities 688.0 717.8 29.9 (.1) - - - - Mortgage-backed securities 2,399.9 2,493.2 102.0 (8.7) - - - - All other corporate 6,062.3 6,297.9 265.9 (30.3) - - - - Redeemable preferred stocks 59.3 62.0 3.5 (.8) - - - - $9,921.3 $10,324.3 $443.1 ($40.1) $ - $ - $ - $ - Other stocks $ 207.3 $ 430.3 $230.7 ($ 7.7) </TABLE> <TABLE> <CAPTION> 1997 Available for Sale Held to Maturity Amortized Market Gross Unrealized Amortized Market Gross Unrealized Cost Value Gains Losses Cost Value Gains Losses <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> Fixed maturities: United States Government and government agencies and authorities $ 600.8 $ 618.6 $ 18.1 ($ .3) $ - $ - $ - $ - States, municipalities and political subdivisions 86.7 89.3 2.6 - 72.0 73.6 1.8 (.2) Foreign government 55.9 57.9 2.1 (.1) 8.3 8.9 .6 - Public utilities 359.3 374.7 15.7 (.3) 459.7 466.7 8.3 (1.3) Mortgage-backed securities 1,715.7 1,779.4 65.5 (1.8) 868.9 899.4 30.6 (.1) All other corporate 4,336.9 4,536.9 200.0 - 1,919.2 1,970.4 52.7 (1.5) Redeemable preferred stocks 70.4 76.0 5.9 (.3) - - - - $7,225.7 $ 7,532.8 $309.9 ($ 2.8) $3,328.1 $ 3,419.0 $ 94.0 ($ 3.1) Other stocks $ 153.3 $ 446.2 $293.7 ($ .8) </TABLE>
The table below sets forth the scheduled maturities of fixed maturities based on market value as of December 31, 1998. Data based on amortized cost is generally the same. Mortgage-backed securities had an average life of approximately 4.6 years at December 31, 1998. Maturity One year or less 6% After one year through five years 25 After five years through ten years 30 After ten years 15 76 Mortgage-backed securities 24 100% Certain risks are inherent in connection with fixed maturity securities, including loss upon default, price volatility in reaction to changes in interest rates, and general market factors and risks associated with reinvestment of proceeds due to prepayments or redemptions in a period of declining interest rates. F-13
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Included in "Other stocks" at December 31, 1998 and 1997, are $243 million and $313 million, respectively, of securities of Provident Financial Group, Inc. which exceeded 10% of Shareholders' Equity. Realized gains (losses) and changes in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on fixed maturity and equity security investments are summarized as follows (in thousands): Fixed Equity Tax Maturities Securities Effects Total 1998 Realized (*) $ 25,841 ($ 19,566) ($ 2,196) $ 4,079 Change in Unrealized 4,982 (69,900) 22,721 (42,197) 1997 Realized 11,542 34,464 (16,102) 29,904 Change in Unrealized 222,188 107,600 (115,426) 214,362 1996 Realized (16,545) 13,075 8,199 4,729 Change in Unrealized (271,803) 70,000 70,631 (131,172) (*) Includes $6.8 million in realized gains on fixed maturities transferred to Ohio Casualty in connection with sale of the Commercial lines division (see Note B). Transactions in fixed maturity investments included in the Statement of Cash Flows consisted of the following (in millions): Maturities and Gross Gross Purchases Redemptions Sales Gains Losses 1998 Held to Maturity (*) $ .8 $ 585.0 $ 45.3 $12.1 ($ .5) Available for Sale 2,154.4 663.8 750.2 24.9 ( 17.5) Total $2,155.2 $1,248.8 $ 795.5 $37.0 ($18.0) 1997 Held to Maturity $ 5.6 $ 422.3 $ 8.0 $ .5 ($ 1.0) Available for Sale 2,549.5 475.5 1,399.6 37.7 (25.7) Total $2,555.1 $ 897.8 $1,407.6 $38.2 ($26.7) 1996 Held to Maturity $ 202.8 $ 332.5 $ 9.3 $ 2.4 ($ 1.2) Available for Sale 1,925.8 284.8 871.8 29.6 (47.3) Total $2,128.6 $ 617.3 $ 881.1 $32.0 ($48.5) (*) Prior to reclassification to available for sale at December 31, 1998. Securities classified as "held to maturity" having amortized cost of $41.8 million, $8.2 million and $9.5 million were sold for gains (losses) of $603,000, ($170,000) and ($159,000) in 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively, due to significant deterioration in the issuers' creditworthiness. F-14
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED E. Investment in Investee Corporation Investment in investee corporation reflects AFG's ownership of 24 million shares (37%) of Chiquita common stock. The market value of this investment was $229 million and $391 million at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Chiquita is a leading international marketer, producer and distributor of quality fresh fruits and vegetables and processed foods. Equity in net losses excludes AFG's share of amounts included in extraordinary items; the amount for 1996 includes $1.5 million in earnings from Citicasters which was sold in 1996. Summarized financial information for Chiquita at December 31, is shown below (in millions). 1998 1997 1996 Current Assets $ 840 $ 783 Noncurrent Assets 1,669 1,618 Current Liabilities 531 483 Noncurrent Liabilities 1,184 1,138 Shareholders' Equity 794 780 Net Sales $2,720 $2,434 $2,435 Operating Income 79 100 84 Loss Before Extraordinary Items (18) - (28) Extraordinary Loss from Debt Refinancings - - (23) Net Loss (18) - (51) Net Loss Attributable to Common Shares (36) (17) (63) Operating income for 1998 includes $74 million of fourth quarter write-downs and costs resulting from widespread flooding in Honduras and Guatemala caused by Hurricane Mitch. F. Cost in Excess of Net Assets Acquired At December 31, 1998 and 1997, accumulated amortization of the excess of cost over net assets of purchased subsidiaries amounted to approximately $143 million and $133 million, respectively. Amortization expense was $11.9 million in 1998, $11.6 million in 1997 and $10.8 million in 1996. F-15
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED G. Long-Term Debt Long-term debt consisted of the following at December 31, (in thousands): 1998 1997 Holding Companies: AFG 7-1/8% Senior Debentures due December 2007 $100,000 $100,000 AFC notes payable under bank line 80,000 45,000 AFC 9-3/4% Debentures due April 2004, less discount of $618 and $737 (imputed rate - 9.8%) 78,560 79,792 American Premier Underwriters, Inc. ("APU") 9-3/4% Subordinated Notes due August 1999, including premium of $487 and $1,224 (imputed rate - 8.8%) 89,467 92,127 APU 10-5/8% Subordinated Notes due April 2000, including premium of $883 and $1,559 (imputed rate - 8.8%) 41,518 43,889 APU 10-7/8% Subordinated Notes due May 2011, including premium of $1,471 and $1,584 (imputed rate - 9.6%) 17,473 17,586 Other 8,518 8,267 $415,536 $386,661 Subsidiaries: AAG 6-7/8% Senior Notes due June 2008 $100,000 $ - AAG notes payable under bank line 27,000 107,000 AAG 11-1/8% Senior Subordinated Notes - 24,080 Notes payable secured by real estate 37,602 49,525 Other 12,294 13,479 $176,896 $194,084 At December 31, 1998, sinking fund and other scheduled principal payments on debt for the subsequent five years were as follows (in thousands): Holding Companies Subsidiaries Total 1999 $88,980 $ 1,986 $90,966 2000 40,635 8,685 49,320 2001 - 1,382 1,382 2002 85,608 1,268 86,876 2003 - 28,294 28,294 Debentures purchased in excess of scheduled payments may be applied to satisfy any sinking fund requirement. The scheduled principal payments shown above assume that debentures previously purchased are applied to the earliest scheduled retirements.
In February 1998, AFC entered into an unsecured credit agreement with a group of banks under which AFC can borrow up to $300 million through December 2002. Borrowings bear interest at floating rates based on prime or Eurodollar rates. At December 31, 1998 and 1997, the weighted average interest rate on amounts borrowed under this bank credit line and a previous one was 5.68% and 6.81%, respectively. In January 1998, AAG replaced its existing bank lines with a $200 million unsecured credit agreement. Loans under the credit agreement mature from 2000 to 2003 and bear interest at floating rates based on prime or Eurodollar rates. At December 31, 1998 and 1997, the weighted average interest rate on amounts borrowed under AAG's bank credit line was 6.09% and 6.80%, respectively. In F-16
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED February 1998, AAG borrowed under the credit line and retired its 11-1/8% Notes. In June 1998, AAG issued $100 million principal amount of 6-7/8% Senior Notes due 2008 and used the net proceeds to reduce outstanding indebtedness under the credit line. Significant retirements of long-term debt since January 1, 1997, have been as follows (in millions): Year Principal Cost AFC Debentures 1997 $85.0 $96.7 1998 1.4 1.4 APU Notes 1997 11.3 12.5 1998 3.6 3.8 AAG Notes 1997 40.8 42.5 1998 24.1 24.8 Cash interest payments of $49 million, $50 million and $75 million were made on long-term debt in 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. H. Minority Interest Minority interest in AFG's balance sheet is comprised of the following (in thousands): 1998 1997 Interest of noncontrolling shareholders in subsidiaries' common stock $124,622 $115,843 Preferred securities issued by subsidiary trusts 325,000 325,000 AFC preferred stock 72,154 72,154 $521,776 $512,997 Preferred Securities Wholly-owned subsidiary trusts of AFCH and AAG have issued $325 million of preferred securities and, in turn, purchased $325 million of newly-authorized AFCH and AAG subordinated debt issues which provide interest and principal payments to fund the respective trusts' obligations. The preferred securities are mandatorily redeemable upon maturity or redemption of the subordinated debt. The preferred securities are summarized as follows: <TABLE> <CAPTION> Date of Optional Issuance Issue (Maturity Date) Amount Redemption Dates <S> <C> <C> <C> October 1996 AFCH 9-1/8% TOPrS (2026) $100,000,000 On or after 10/22/2001 November 1996 AAG 9-1/4% TOPrS (2026) 75,000,000 On or after 11/7/2001 March 1997 AAG 8-7/8% Pfd (2027 75,000,000 On or after 3/1/2007 May 1997 AAG 7-1/4% ROPES (2041) 75,000,000 Prior to 9/28/2000 and after 9/28/2001 </TABLE> AFCH and AAG effectively provide unconditional guarantees of their respective trusts' obligations and AFG guarantees AFCH's obligation. F-17
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED AFC Preferred Stock AFC's Preferred Stock is voting, cumulative, and consists of the following: Series J, no par value; $25.00 liquidating value per share; annual dividends per share $2.00; redeemable at $25.75 per share beginning December 2005 declining to $25.00 at December 2007; 2,886,161 shares (stated value $72.2 million) outstanding at December 31, 1998 and 1997. In December 1997, AFC retired all shares of its Series F and G Preferred Stock in exchange for approximately $244 million in cash and the above shares of Series J Preferred Stock. AFG recorded a charge to retained earnings of $153.3 million representing the excess of total consideration paid over the stated value of the preferred stock retired. In 1996, AFC redeemed 1.6 million shares of its Series F Preferred Stock for $31.9 million and purchased 250,000 shares of Series F from its retirement plan for $5.0 million. In 1996, AFC issued 1.6 million shares of its Series G Preferred Stock to its retirement plan for $16.8 million. Minority Interest Expense Minority interest expense is comprised of (in thousands): 1998 1997 1996 Interest of noncontrolling shareholders in earnings of subsidiaries $21,845 $16,142 $19,851 Accrued distributions by subsidiaries on preferred securities: Trust issued securities 28,181 24,599 2,780 AFC preferred stock 5,772 13,715 25,190 $55,798 $54,456 $47,821 I. Shareholders' Equity At December 31, 1998, there were 60,928,322 shares of AFG Common Stock outstanding, including 1,367,472 shares held by American Premier for distribution to certain creditors and other claimants pursuant to a plan of reorganization relating to American Premier's predecessor. AFG is authorized to issue 12.5 million shares of Voting Preferred Stock and 12.5 million shares of Nonvoting Preferred Stock, each without par value. In 1996, 212,698 shares of convertible preferred stock were converted into 446,799 shares of AFG Common Stock. Prior to conversion, the preferred stock had a carrying value of $9.4 million and was included in Capital Surplus at $469,000 (net of $8.9 million in related notes receivable). F-18
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Stock Options At December 31, 1998, there were 4.7 million shares of AFG Common Stock reserved for issuance under AFG's Stock Option Plan. Options are granted with an exercise price equal to the market price of AFG Common Stock at the date of grant. Options generally become exercisable at the rate of 20% per year commencing one year after grant; those granted to nonemployee directors of AFG are fully exercisable upon grant. All options expire ten years after the date of grant. Data for AFG's Stock Option Plan is presented below: <TABLE> <CAPTION> 1998 1997 1996 Average Average Average Exercise Exercise Exercise Shares Price Shares Price Shares Price <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> Outstanding at beginning of year 3,687,635 $28.73 3,331,947 $26.53 3,939,986 $25.72 Granted 466,250 $41.13 770,500 $37.54 75,000 $32.47 Exercised (296,416) $27.96 (413,312) $27.32 (664,639) $22.33 Forfeited (49,100) $33.79 (1,500) $37.88 (18,400) $30.06 Outstanding at end of year 3,808,369 $30.25 3,687,635 $28.73 3,331,947 $26.53 Options exercisable at year-end 2,085,873 $27.06 1,774,280 $26.03 1,379,182 $24.60 </TABLE> The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 1998: Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Average Average Average Range of Exercise Remaining Exercise Exercise Prices Shares Price Life Shares Price $17.24 - $20.00 99,405 $18.22 2.0 years 99,405 $18.22 $20.00 - $25.00 1,271,850 $23.95 5.0 952,577 $23.94 $25.00 - $30.00 291,864 $27.16 5.0 257,791 $27.26 $30.00 - $35.00 1,013,250 $30.34 7.1 597,900 $30.22 $35.00 - $45.19 1,132,000 $39.09 8.6 178,200 $37.81 3,808,369 $30.25 6.6 2,085,873 $27.06 No compensation cost has been recognized for stock option grants. Had compensation cost been determined for stock option awards based on the fair values at grant dates consistent with the method prescribed by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, AFG's net income and earnings per share would not have been materially different from amounts reported. For SFAS No. 123 purposes, calculations were determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the following assumptions: dividend yield of 2%; expected volatility of 21% for 1998 and 1997 and 20% for 1996; risk-free interest rate of 4.8% for 1998, 5.8% for 1997 and 6.2% for 1996; and expected life of 7.3 years for 1998, 6.7 years for 1997 and 7.5 years for 1996. F-19
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Unrealized Gain on Marketable Securities The change in net unrealized gain on marketable securities included the following (in millions): <TABLE> <CAPTION> Tax Minority Pretax Effects Interest Net 1998 <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> Unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities arising during the period ($ 50.5) $ 19.0 $ .6 ($ 30.9) Unrealized gain on securities transferred from held to maturity 87.0 (30.4) (7.0) 49.6 Less reclassification adjustment for realized gains included in net income and unrealized gains of subsidiaries sold (20.4) 7.1 3.2 (10.1) Change in net unrealized gain on marketable securities $ 16.1 ($ 4.3) ($ 3.2) $ 8.6 1997 Unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities arising during the period $320.2 ($112.2) ($15.1) $192.9 Less reclassification adjustment for realized gains included in net income (51.5) 18.0 1.5 (32.0) Change in net unrealized gain on marketable securities $268.7 ($ 94.2) ($13.6) $160.9 1996 Unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities arising during the period ($ 94.3) $ 21.5 $ 6.3 ($ 66.5) Less reclassification adjustment for realized gains included in net income 4.7 (1.7) - 3.0 Change in net unrealized gain on marketable securities ($ 89.6) $ 19.8 $ 6.3 ($ 63.5) </TABLE>
J. Income Taxes The following is a reconciliation of income taxes at the statutory rate of 35% and income taxes as shown in the Statement of Earnings (in thousands): 1998 1997 1996 Earnings before income taxes and extraordinary items $204,754 $319,610 $353,244 Extraordinary items before income taxes (1,265) (11,287) (35,670) Adjusted earnings before income taxes $203,489 $308,323 $317,574 Income taxes at statutory rate $ 71,221 $107,912 $111,151 Effect of: Minority interest 9,438 10,058 15,112 Losses utilized (6,572) (3,164) (43,302) Amortization of intangibles 4,482 3,362 3,065 Dividends received deduction (2,189) (2,002) (7,450) Other 2,709 (93) 5,698 Total provision 79,089 116,073 84,274 Amounts applicable to extraordinary items 495 4,054 7,003 Provision for income taxes as shown on the Statement of Earnings $ 79,584 $120,127 $ 91,277 Adjusted earnings before income taxes consisted of the following (in thousands): 1998 1997 1996 Subject to tax in: United States $196,020 $317,615 $331,842 Foreign jurisdictions 7,469 (9,292) (14,268) $203,489 $308,323 $317,574 F-20
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED The total income tax provision consists of (in thousands): 1998 1997 1996 Current taxes (credits): Federal $63,368 $ 35,495 $22,450 Foreign 94 - (1,735) State 652 (2,544) 6,369 Deferred taxes: Federal 14,553 83,581 56,869 Foreign 422 (459) 321 $79,089 $116,073 $84,274 For income tax purposes, certain members of the AFC consolidated tax group had the following carryforwards available at December 31, 1998 (in millions): Expiring Amount { 1999 - 2003 $70 Operating Loss { 2004 - 2008 56 Capital Loss 1999 68 Other - Tax Credits 15 Deferred income tax assets and liabilities reflect temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities recognized for financial reporting purposes and the amounts recognized for tax purposes. The significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities included in the Balance Sheet at December 31, were as follows (in millions): 1998 1997 Deferred tax assets: Net operating loss carryforwards $ 44.3 $ 66.6 Capital loss carryforwards 23.7 32.0 Insurance claims and reserves 291.2 287.5 Other, net 110.0 148.8 469.2 534.9 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets (88.6) (97.9) 380.6 437.0 Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred acquisition costs (121.3) (127.4) Investment securities (267.9) (268.2) (389.2) (395.6) Net deferred tax asset (liability) ($ 8.6) $ 41.4
The gross deferred tax asset has been reduced by a valuation allowance based on an analysis of the likelihood of realization. Factors considered in assessing the need for a valuation allowance include: (i) recent tax returns, which show neither a history of large amounts of taxable income nor cumulative losses in recent years, (ii) opportunities to generate taxable income from sales of appreciated assets, and (iii) the likelihood of generating larger amounts of taxable income in the future. The likelihood of realizing this asset will be reviewed periodically; any adjustments required to the valuation allowance will be made in the period in which the developments on which they are based become known. The aggregate valuation allowance decreased by $9.3 million in 1998 due primarily to the utilization of net operating loss carryforwards previously reserved. Cash payments for income taxes, net of refunds, were $45.9 million, $51.6 million and $40.2 million for 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. F-21
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED K. Extraordinary Items Extraordinary items represent AFG's proportionate share of gains and losses related to debt retirements by the following companies. Amounts shown are net of minority interest and income tax benefits (in thousands): 1998 1997 1996 Holding Companies: AFC (parent) ($ 77) ($5,395) ($ 9,672) APU (parent) (44) (588) (3,254) Subsidiaries: AAG (649) (1,250) (7,159) Other - - 57 Investee: Chiquita - - (8,639) ($770) ($7,233) ($28,667) L. Commitments and Contingencies Loss accruals (included in other liabilities) have been recorded for various environmental and occupational injury and disease claims and other contingencies arising out of the railroad operations disposed of by American Premier's predecessor, Penn Central Transportation Company ("PCTC"), prior to its bankruptcy reorganization in 1978. Under purchase accounting in connection with the Mergers, any such excess liability will be charged to earnings in AFG's financial statements. American Premier's liability for environmental claims of $32.4 million at December 31, 1998, consists of a number of proceedings and claims seeking to impose responsibility for hazardous waste remediation costs at certain railroad sites formerly owned by PCTC and certain other sites where hazardous waste was allegedly generated by PCTC's railroad related operations. It is difficult to estimate remediation costs for a number of reasons, including the number and financial resources of other potentially responsible parties, the range of costs for remediation alternatives, changing technology and the time period over which these matters develop. American Premier's liability is based on information currently available and is subject to change as additional information becomes available. American Premier's liability for occupational injury and disease claims of $48.1 million at December 31, 1998, includes pending and expected claims by former employees of PCTC for injury or disease allegedly caused by exposure to excessive noise, asbestos or other substances in the workplace. Anticipated recoveries of $29.5 million on these liabilities are included in other assets. Recorded amounts are based on the accumulation of estimates of reported and unreported claims and related expenses and estimates of probable recoveries from insurance carriers.
AFG has accrued approximately $10.6 million at December 31, 1998, for environmental costs and certain other matters associated with the sales of former operations. In management's opinion, the outcome of the items discussed under "Uncertainties" in Management's Discussion and Analysis and the above claims and contingencies will not, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on AFG's financial condition or results of operations. F-22
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED M. Quarterly Operating Results (Unaudited) The operations of certain of AFG's business segments are seasonal in nature. While insurance premiums are recognized on a relatively level basis, claim losses related to adverse weather (snow, hail, hurricanes, tornadoes, etc.) may be seasonal. Historically, Chiquita's operations are significantly stronger in the first and second quarters than in the third and fourth quarters. Quarterly results necessarily rely heavily on estimates. These estimates and certain other factors, such as the nature of investees' operations and discretionary sales of assets, cause the quarterly results not to be necessarily indicative of results for longer periods of time. The following are quarterly results of consolidated operations for the two years ended December 31, 1998 (in millions, except per share amounts). <TABLE> <CAPTION> 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter Year 1998 <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> Revenues $1,016.8 $1,037.8 $1,031.8 $ 963.6 $4,050.0 Earnings (loss) before extraordinary items 66.9 40.6 56.4 (38.7) 125.2 Extraordinary items (.7) (.1) - - (.8) Net earnings (loss) 66.2 40.5 56.4 (38.7) 124.4 Basic earnings per common share: Before extraordinary items $1.09 $.66 $.92 ($.63) $2.04 Loss on prepayment of debt (.01) - - - (.01) Net earnings (loss) available to Common Shares 1.08 .66 .92 (.63) 2.03 Diluted earnings per common share: Before extraordinary items $1.08 $.65 $.91 ($.63) $2.01 Loss on prepayment of debt (.01) - - - (.01) Net earnings (loss) available to Common Shares 1.07 .65 .91 (.63) 2.00 Average number of Common Shares: Basic 61.1 61.4 61.4 61.1 61.2 Diluted 62.1 62.6 62.2 61.8 62.2
1997 Revenues $945.8 $987.6 $1,034.8 $1,052.5 $4,020.7 Earnings before extraordinary items 63.2 61.2 33.7 41.4 199.5 Extraordinary items (.1) - (7.0) (.1) (7.2) Net earnings 63.1 61.2 26.7 41.3 192.3 Basic earnings per common share: Before extraordinary items $1.03 $1.03 $.57 $ .69 $3.34 Loss on prepayment of debt - - (.12) - (.12) Premium on redemption of preferred stock - - - (2.58) (2.57) Net earnings (loss) available to Common Shares 1.03 1.03 .45 (1.89) .65 Diluted earnings per common share: Before extraordinary items $1.02 $1.02 $.56 $ .68 $3.28 Loss on prepayment of debt - - (.12) - (.12) Premium on redemption of preferred stock - - - (2.54) (2.52) Net earnings (loss) available to Common Shares 1.02 1.02 .44 (1.86) .64 Average number of Common Shares: Basic 61.1 59.2 58.9 59.4 59.7 Diluted 62.0 60.2 60.3 60.4 60.7 </TABLE> Quarterly earnings per share do not add to year-to-date amounts due to changes in shares outstanding. F-23
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED In the second quarter of 1998, AFG recorded approximately $41 million of losses due to severe storms in the midwestern part of the country. In the fourth quarter of 1998, AFG increased A&E reserves by recording a noncash, pretax charge of $214 million. In the fourth quarter of 1997, AFG increased California workers' compensation reserves by approximately $25 million due to increased claims severity related to business written in 1996 and 1997. AFG has realized substantial gains on sales of subsidiaries and investees in recent years. See Note B for a more detailed description of these and other transactions. Sales of subsidiaries also includes pretax charges of $10.5 million and $5.0 million in the third and fourth quarters of 1998, respectively, and $17.0 million in the fourth quarter of 1997 relating to operations expected to be disposed of. Realized gains on sales of securities, affiliates and other investments amounted to (in millions): 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter Year 1998 $22.0 $8.9 $25.4 $123.4 $179.7 1997 2.5 4.2 29.7 54.6 91.0 N. Insurance Securities owned by insurance subsidiaries having a carrying value of approximately $900 million at December 31, 1998, were on deposit as required by regulatory authorities. Insurance Reserves The liability for losses and loss adjustment expenses for certain long-term scheduled payments under workers' compensation, auto liability and other liability insurance has been discounted at rates ranging from 3.5% to 8%. As a result, the total liability for losses and loss adjustment expenses at December 31, 1998, has been reduced by $41 million.
The following table provides an analysis of changes in the liability for losses and loss adjustment expenses, net of reinsurance (and grossed up), over the past three years on a GAAP basis (in millions): 1998 1997 1996 Balance at beginning of period $3,489 $3,404 $3,393 Provision for losses and LAE occurring in the current year 2,059 2,045 2,179 Net increase (decrease) in provision for claims of prior years 156 31 (48) 2,215 2,076 2,131 Payments for losses and LAE of: Current year (885) (840) (999) Prior years (1,110) (1,151) (1,121) (1,995) (1,991) (2,120) Reserves transferred to Ohio Casualty (481) - - Reclassification of allowance for uncollectible reinsurance 77 - - Balance at end of period $3,305 $3,489 $3,404 Add back reinsurance recoverables, net of allowance in 1998 1,468 736 720 Gross unpaid losses and LAE included in the Balance Sheet $4,773 $4,225 $4,124 F-24
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Reinsurance Recoverable Balance sheet amounts for reinsurance recoverable and prepaid reinsurance premiums at December 31, 1998, include amounts recoverable related to (i) the transfer of the Commercial lines business to Ohio Casualty under a reinsurance contract ($644 million), (ii) additional A&E reserves recorded ($121 million) and (iii) the ceding of 30% of California workers' compensation business ($38 million). Net Investment Income The following table shows (in millions) investment income earned and investment expenses incurred by AFG's insurance companies. 1998 1997 1996 Insurance group investment income: Fixed maturities $849.6 $830.6 $817.8 Equity securities 9.1 6.4 8.2 Other 12.1 10.6 13.5 870.8 847.6 839.5 Insurance group investment expenses (*) (42.6) (37.3) (38.5) $828.2 $810.3 $801.0 (*) Included primarily in "Other operating and general expenses" in the Statement of Earnings. Statutory Information AFG's insurance subsidiaries are required to file financial statements with state insurance regulatory authorities prepared on an accounting basis prescribed or permitted by such authorities (statutory basis). Net earnings and policyholders' surplus on a statutory basis for the insurance subsidiaries were as follows (in millions): Policyholders' Net Earnings Surplus 1998 1997 1996 1998 1997 Property and casualty companies $261 $159 $276 $1,840 $1,916 Life insurance companies 41 74 67 365 324 Reinsurance In the normal course of business, AFG's insurance subsidiaries assume and cede reinsurance with other insurance companies. The following table shows (in millions) (i) amounts deducted from property and casualty premiums in connection with reinsurance ceded, (ii) amounts included in income for reinsurance assumed and (iii) reinsurance recoveries deducted from losses and loss adjustment expenses. 1998 1997 1996 Reinsurance ceded $788 $614 $518 Reinsurance assumed - including involuntary pools and associations 37 89 58 Reinsurance recoveries 651 296 306
O. Additional Information Total rental expense for various leases of office space, data processing equipment and railroad rolling stock was $41 million, $36 million and $34 million for 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. Sublease rental income related to these leases totaled $5.4 million in 1998, $5.4 million in 1997 and $6.1 million in 1996. F-25
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Future minimum rentals, related principally to office space and railroad rolling stock, required under operating leases having initial or remaining noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year at December 31, 1998, were as follows: 1999 - $40 million; 2000 - $35 million; 2001 - $31 million; 2002 - $25 million; 2003 - $19 million; and $19 million thereafter. At December 31, 1998, minimum sublease rentals to be received through the expiration of the leases aggregated $9 million. Other operating and general expenses included charges for possible losses on agents' balances, reinsurance recoverables, other receivables and other assets in the following amounts: 1998 - $14.0 million; 1997 - $7.6 million; and 1996 - $0. The aggregate allowance for such losses amounted to approximately $149 million and $131 million at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Summary Financial Information of AFC Holding AFG has guaranteed the obligations of AFC Holding relating to the preferred securities issued by a wholly-owned subsidiary trust. Summarized consolidated financial information for AFC Holding is as follows (in millions): 1998 1997 1996* Cash and Investments $11,748 $12,290 Other Assets 4,116 3,482 Insurance Claims and Reserves 11,797 11,792 Debt 492 481 Minority Interest 600 590 Shareholders' Equity 1,754 1,607 Revenues $ 4,056 $ 4,021 $4,115 Income before Extraordinary Items 133 199 262 Extraordinary Item - Loss on Prepayment of Debt (1) (7) (29) Net Income 132 192 233 (*) AFC Holding is the predecessor of AFG; data for 1996 represents that of AFG.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments The following table presents (in millions) the carrying value and estimated fair value of AFG's financial instruments at December 31. 1998 1997 Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Value Value Value Value Assets: Fixed maturities $10,324 $10,324 $10,861 $10,952 Other stocks 430 430 446 446 Investment in investee corporation 192 229 201 391 Liabilities: Annuity benefits accumulated $ 5,450 $ 5,307 $ 5,528 $ 5,319 Long-term debt: Holding companies 415 428 387 401 Subsidiaries 177 176 194 195 Minority Interest: Trust preferred securities $ 325 $ 336 $ 325 $ 339 AFC preferred stock 72 80 72 74 Shareholders' Equity $ 1,716 $ 2,673 $ 1,663 $ 2,461 F-26
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED When available, fair values are based on prices quoted in the most active market for each security. If quoted prices are not available, fair value is estimated based on present values, discounted cash flows, fair value of comparable securities, or similar methods. The fair value of the liability for annuities in the payout phase is assumed to be the present value of the anticipated cash flows, discounted at current interest rates. Fair value of annuities in the accumulation phase is assumed to be the policyholders' cash surrender amount. Fair value of shareholders' equity is based on the quoted market price of AFG's Common Stock. Financial Instruments with Off-Balance-Sheet Risk On occasion, AFG and its subsidiaries have entered into financial instrument transactions which may present off-balance-sheet risks of both a credit and market risk nature. These transactions include commitments to fund loans, loan guarantees and commitments to purchase and sell securities or loans. At December 31, 1998, AFG and its subsidiaries had commitments to fund credit facilities and contribute limited partnership capital totaling up to $80 million. Restrictions on Transfer of Funds and Assets of Subsidiaries Payments of dividends, loans and advances by AFG's subsidiaries are subject to various state laws, federal regulations and debt covenants which limit the amount of dividends, loans and advances that can be paid. Under applicable restrictions, the maximum amount of dividends available to AFG in 1999 from its insurance subsidiaries without seeking regulatory clearance is approximately $281 million. Total "restrictions" on intercompany transfers from AFG's subsidiaries cannot be quantified due to the discretionary nature of the restrictions. Benefit Plans AFG expensed approximately $22 million in 1998, $21 million in 1997 and $17 million in 1996 for contributions to its retirement and employee savings plans. Transactions With Affiliates AFG owns a $3.7 million minority interest in a residential homebuilding company. A brother of AFG's Chairman also owns a minority interest. AAG has extended a line of credit to this company under which the homebuilder may borrow up to $8 million at 13% with interest deferred and added to principal. At December 31, 1998, $6.1 million was due under the credit line. In a 1997 transaction, AAG purchased for $4.9 million a minority ownership position in a company engaged in the production of ethanol. AFG's Chairman purchased the remaining ownership. During 1998, this company borrowed $4.0 million from AAG under a subordinated note bearing interest at 14% and paid a $6.3 million capital distribution, including $3.1 million to AAG. AAG's equity investment in this company at December 31, 1998 was $1.8 million. In addition, AAG and Great American have each extended a $5 million line of credit to this company; no amounts have been borrowed under the credit lines.
P. Subsequent Event (Unaudited) In January 1999, AFG agreed to acquire Worldwide Insurance Company (formerly Providian Auto and Home Insurance Company) from AEGON Insurance Group for approximately $160 million. Worldwide is a provider of direct response private passenger automobile insurance and generated net written premiums in 1998 of approximately $121 million. Completion of the transaction is expected to occur in the first half of 1999. F-27
PART IV ITEM 14 Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K (a) Documents filed as part of this Report: 1. Financial Statements are included in Part II, Item 8. 2. Financial Statement Schedules: A. Selected Quarterly Financial Data is included in Note M to the Consolidated Financial Statements. B. Schedules filed herewith for 1998, 1997 and 1996: Page I - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant S-2 V - Supplemental Information Concerning Property-Casualty Insurance Operations S-4 All other schedules for which provisions are made in the applicable regulation of the Securities and Exchange Commission have been omitted as they are not applicable, not required, or the information required thereby is set forth in the Financial Statements or the notes thereto. 3. Exhibits - see Exhibit Index on page E-1. (b) Reports on Form 8-K: None S-1
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. - PARENT ONLY (*) SCHEDULE I - CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT (In Thousands) Condensed Balance Sheet December 31, 1998 1997 Assets: Cash and short-term investments $ 6,777 $ 25,890 Receivables from affiliates 270,500 352,766 Investment in subsidiaries 1,612,674 1,473,261 Other assets 44,502 41,690 $1,934,453 $1,893,607 Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity: Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities $ 1,659 $ 8,131 Long-term debt 100,000 100,000 Payables to affiliates 116,617 122,767 Shareholders' equity 1,716,177 1,662,709 $1,934,453 $1,893,607 Condensed Statement of Earnings Year Ended December 31, 1998 1997 1996 Income: Dividends from subsidiaries $ 282 $ 281 $693,758 Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries 209,453 301,385 (345,484) Investment and other income 22,367 35,470 11,723 232,102 337,136 359,997 Costs and Expenses: Interest charges on borrowed money 18,748 9,702 1,805 Other operating and general expenses 8,600 7,824 4,948 27,348 17,526 6,753 Earnings before income taxes and extraordinary items 204,754 319,610 353,244 Provision for income taxes 79,584 120,127 91,277 Earnings before extraordinary items 125,170 199,483 261,967 Extraordinary items - loss on prepayment of debt (770) (7,233) (28,667) Net Earnings $124,400 $192,250 $233,300 (*) The Parent Only Financial Statements include the accounts of AFG and its predecessor, AFC Holding Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary. S-2
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. - PARENT ONLY (*) SCHEDULE I - CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT - CONTINUED (In Thousands) Condensed Statement of Cash Flows Year Ended December 31, 1998 1997 1996 Operating Activities: Net earnings $124,400 $192,250 $233,300 Adjustments: Equity in earnings of subsidiaries (127,547) (180,581) (230,019) Change in balances with affiliates 76,116 54,620 (91,453) Increase (decrease) in payables (2,612) 881 (958) Dividends from subsidiaries 282 281 - Other (2,882) 2,275 1,311 67,757 69,726 (87,819) Investing Activities: Purchases of subsidiaries and other investments - (24,872) (69) Financing Activities: Additional long-term borrowings - 98,987 - Issuance of subordinated notes to subsidiary trust - - 96,464 Issuances of common stock 13,238 13,845 26,296 Repurchases of common stock (20,651) (97,320) (8,563) Cash dividends paid (79,457) (77,941) (79,051) (86,870) (62,429) 35,146 Net Decrease in Cash and Short-term Investments (19,113) (17,575) (52,742) Cash and short-term investments at beginning of period 25,890 43,465 96,207 Cash and short-term investments at end of period $ 6,777 $ 25,890 $ 43,465 (*) The Parent Only Financial Statements include the accounts of AFG and its predecessor, AFC Holding Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary. S-3
AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES SCHEDULE V - SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION CONCERNING PROPERTY-CASUALTY INSURANCE OPERATIONS THREE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998 (IN MILLIONS) COLUMN A COLUMN B COLUMN C COLUMN D COLUMN E (a) RESERVES FOR DEFERRED UNPAID CLAIMS (b) AFFILIATION POLICY AND CLAIMS DISCOUNT (c) WITH ACQUISITION ADJUSTMENT DEDUCTED IN COLUMN C UNEARNED REGISTRANT COSTS EXPENSES PREMIUMS CONSOLIDATED PROPERTY-CASUALTY ENTITIES 1998 $217 $4,773 $41 $1,233 1997 $260 $4,225 $60 $1,329 1996 <TABLE> <CAPTION> COLUMN F COLUMN G COLUMN H COLUMN I COLUMN J COLUMN K CLAIMS AND CLAIM ADJUSTMENT EXPENSES AMORTIZATION PAID INCURRED RELATED TO OF DEFERRED CLAIMS NET POLICY AND CLAIM EARNED INVESTMENT CURRENT PRIOR ACQUISITION ADJUSTMENT PREMIUMS PREMIUMS INCOME YEARS YEARS COSTS EXPENSES WRITTEN <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> 1998 $2,699 $324 $2,059 $156 $589 $1,995 $2,609(d) 1997 $2,824 $316 $2,045 $ 31 $620 $1,991 $2,858 1996 $2,845 $335 $2,179 ($ 48) $628 $2,120 $2,788 </TABLE> (a) Grossed up for reinsurance recoverables of $1,468 and $736 at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. (b) Discounted at rates ranging from 3.5% to 8%. (c) Grossed up for prepaid reinsurance premiums of $314 and $189 at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. (d) Before a reduction of $138 million for unearned premium transfer related to the sale of the Commercial lines division. S-4
Signatures Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, American Financial Group, Inc. has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized. American Financial Group, Inc. Signed: March 29, 1999 BY:s/CARL H. LINDNER Carl H. Lindner Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated: Signature Capacity Date s/CARL H. LINDNER Chairman of the Board March 29, 1999 Carl H. Lindner of Directors s/THEODORE H. EMMERICH Director* March 29, 1999 Theodore H. Emmerich s/JAMES E. EVANS Director March 29, 1999 James E. Evans s/S. CRAIG LINDNER Director March 29, 1999 S. Craig Lindner s/WILLIAM R. MARTIN Director* March 29, 1999 William R. Martin s/FRED J. RUNK Senior Vice President and March 29, 1999 Fred J. Runk Treasurer (principal financial and accounting officer) * Member of the Audit Committee
INDEX TO EXHIBITS AMERICAN FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. Number Exhibit Description 3(a) Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, filed as Exhibit 3(a) to AFG's Form 10-K for 1997. (*) 3(b) Code of Regulations, filed as Exhibit 3(b) to AFG's Form 10-K for 1997. (*) 4 Instruments defining the rights of Registrant has no security holders. outstanding debt issues exceeding 10% of the assets of Registrant and consolidated subsidiaries. Management Contracts: 10(a) Stock Option Plan, as amended. _____ 10(b) Form of stock option agreements. _____ 10(c) 1998 Bonus Plan. _____ 10(d) Nonqualified Auxiliary RASP, as amended. _____ 10(e) Retirement program for outside directors, filed as Exhibit 10(e) to AFG's Form 10-K for 1995. (*) 10(f) Directors' Compensation Plan, filed as Exhibit 10(f) to AFG's Form 10-K for 1995. (*) 12 Computation of ratios of earnings to fixed charges. _____ 21 Subsidiaries of the Registrant. _____ 23 Consent of independent auditors. _____ 27 Financial data schedule. (**) (*) Incorporated herein by reference. (**) Copy included in Report filed electronically with the Securities and Exchange Commission. E-1