Form 10-Q
Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

Form 10-Q

(Mark One)

x

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012

OR

 

¨

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM                 TO                 

Commission file number: 001-15787

 

 

MetLife, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware   13-4075851

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

200 Park Avenue, New York, N.Y.   10166-0188
(Address of principal
executive offices)
  (Zip Code)

(212) 578-2211

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  þ    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  þ    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer

 

þ

  

Accelerated filer

 

¨

Non-accelerated filer

 

¨  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

  

Smaller reporting company

 

¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  þ

At October 31, 2012, 1,091,044,048 shares of the registrant’s common stock, $0.01 par value per share, were outstanding.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

Table of Contents

 

          Page  

Part I — Financial Information

  

Item 1.

   Financial Statements (at September 30, 2012 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2011 and for the Three Months and Nine Months Ended September  30, 2012 and 2011 (Unaudited))      5   
   Interim Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets      5   
   Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income      6   
   Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Equity      7   
   Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows      9   
   Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements      10   

Item 2.

   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations      134   

Item 3.

   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk      226   

Item 4.

   Controls and Procedures      234   

Part II — Other Information

     234   

Item 1.

  

Legal Proceedings

     234   

Item 1A.

  

Risk Factors

     237   

Item 2.

  

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

     251   

Item 6.

  

Exhibits

     252   

Signatures

     254   

Exhibit Index

     E-1   

 

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Table of Contents

As used in this Form 10-Q, “MetLife,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to MetLife, Inc., a Delaware corporation incorporated in 1999, its subsidiaries and affiliates.

Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, including Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, may contain or incorporate by reference information that includes or is based upon forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements give expectations or forecasts of future events. These statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe” and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, prospective services or products, future performance or results of current and anticipated services or products, sales efforts, expenses, the outcome of contingencies such as legal proceedings, trends in operations and financial results.

Any or all forward-looking statements may turn out to be wrong. They can be affected by inaccurate assumptions or by known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Many such factors will be important in determining the actual future results of MetLife, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates. These statements are based on current expectations and the current economic environment. They involve a number of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. These statements are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Risks, uncertainties, and other factors that might cause such differences include the risks, uncertainties and other factors identified in MetLife, Inc.’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). These factors include: (1) difficult conditions in the global capital markets; (2) concerns over U.S. fiscal policy and the “fiscal cliff” in the U.S., as well as rating agency downgrades of U.S. Treasury securities; (3) uncertainty about the effectiveness of governmental and regulatory actions to stabilize the financial system, the imposition of fees relating thereto, or the promulgation of additional regulations; (4) increased volatility and disruption of the capital and credit markets, which may affect our ability to seek financing or access our credit facilities; (5) impact of comprehensive financial services regulation reform on us; (6) economic, political, legal, currency and other risks relating to our international operations, including with respect to fluctuations of exchange rates; (7) exposure to financial and capital market risk, including as a result of the disruption in Europe and possible withdrawal of one or more countries from the Euro zone; (8) changes in general economic conditions, including the performance of financial markets and interest rates, which may affect our ability to raise capital, generate fee income and market-related revenue and finance statutory reserve requirements and may require us to pledge collateral or make payments related to declines in value of specified assets; (9) potential liquidity and other risks resulting from our participation in a securities lending program and other transactions; (10) investment losses and defaults, and changes to investment valuations; (11) impairments of goodwill and realized losses or market value impairments to illiquid assets; (12) defaults on our mortgage loans; (13) the defaults or deteriorating credit of other financial institutions that could adversely affect us; (14) our ability to address unforeseen liabilities, asset impairments, or rating actions arising from acquisitions or dispositions, including our acquisition of American Life Insurance Company and Delaware American Life Insurance Company (collectively, “ALICO”) and to successfully integrate and manage the growth of acquired businesses with minimal disruption; (15) uncertainty with respect to the outcome of the closing agreement entered into with the United States Internal Revenue Service in connection with the acquisition of ALICO; (16) the dilutive impact on our stockholders resulting from the settlement of common equity units issued in connection with the acquisition of ALICO or otherwise; (17) regulatory and other restrictions affecting MetLife, Inc.’s ability to pay dividends and repurchase common stock; (18) MetLife, Inc.’s primary reliance, as a holding company, on dividends from its subsidiaries to meet debt payment obligations and the applicable regulatory restrictions on the ability of the subsidiaries to pay such dividends; (19) downgrades in our claims paying ability, financial strength or credit ratings; (20) ineffectiveness of risk management policies and procedures; (21) availability and effectiveness of reinsurance or indemnification arrangements, as well as default or failure of counterparties to perform; (22) discrepancies between actual claims experience and

 

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assumptions used in setting prices for our products and establishing the liabilities for our obligations for future policy benefits and claims; (23) catastrophe losses; (24) heightened competition, including with respect to pricing, entry of new competitors, consolidation of distributors, the development of new products by new and existing competitors, distribution of amounts available under U.S. government programs, and for personnel; (25) unanticipated changes in industry trends; (26) changes in assumptions related to investment valuations, deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements, value of business acquired or goodwill; (27) changes in accounting standards, practices and/or policies; (28) increased expenses relating to pension and postretirement benefit plans, as well as health care and other employee benefits; (29) exposure to losses related to variable annuity guarantee benefits, including from significant and sustained downturns or extreme volatility in equity markets, reduced interest rates, unanticipated policyholder behavior, mortality or longevity, and the adjustment for nonperformance risk; (30) deterioration in the experience of the “closed block” established in connection with the reorganization of Metropolitan Life Insurance Company; (31) adverse results or other consequences from litigation, arbitration or regulatory investigations; (32) inability to protect our intellectual property rights or claims of infringement of the intellectual property rights of others; (33) discrepancies between actual experience and assumptions used in establishing liabilities related to other contingencies or obligations; (34) regulatory, legislative or tax changes relating to our insurance, banking, international, or other operations that may affect the cost of, or demand for, our products or services, or increase the cost or administrative burdens of providing benefits to employees; (35) the effects of business disruption or economic contraction due to disasters such as terrorist attacks, cyberattacks, other hostilities, or natural catastrophes, including any related impact on our disaster recovery systems, cyber- or other information security systems and management continuity planning; (36) the effectiveness of our programs and practices in avoiding giving our associates incentives to take excessive risks; and (37) other risks and uncertainties described from time to time in MetLife, Inc.’s filings with the SEC.

MetLife, Inc. does not undertake any obligation to publicly correct or update any forward-looking statement if MetLife, Inc. later becomes aware that such statement is not likely to be achieved. Please consult any further disclosures MetLife, Inc. makes on related subjects in reports to the SEC.

Note Regarding Reliance on Statements in Our Contracts

See “Exhibit Index — Note Regarding Reliance on Statements in Our Contracts” for information regarding agreements included as exhibits to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

 

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Table of Contents

Part I — Financial Information

Item 1. Financial Statements

MetLife, Inc.

Interim Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

September 30, 2012 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2011

(In millions, except share and per share data)

 

    September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  

Assets

   

Investments:

   

Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (amortized cost: $344,791 and $329,811, respectively; includes $3,349 and $3,225, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)

  $ 378,005     $ 350,271  

Equity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (cost: $2,838 and $3,208, respectively)

    2,803       3,023  

Trading and other securities, at estimated fair value (includes $565 and $473, respectively, of actively traded securities; and $146 and $280, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)

    15,995       18,268  

Mortgage loans:

   

Held-for-investment, principally at amortized cost (net of valuation allowances of $354 and $481, respectively; includes $2,928 and $3,187, respectively, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities)

    57,884       56,915  

Held-for-sale, principally at estimated fair value (includes $64 and $10,716, respectively, under the fair value option)

    1,286       15,178  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Mortgage loans, net

    59,170       72,093  

Policy loans

    11,949       11,892  

Real estate and real estate joint ventures (includes $10 and $15, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)

    8,749       8,563  

Other limited partnership interests (includes $271 and $259, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)

    6,730       6,378  

Short-term investments, principally at estimated fair value

    14,678       17,310  

Other invested assets, principally at estimated fair value (includes $81 and $98, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)

    23,477       23,581  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investments

    521,556       511,379  

Cash and cash equivalents, principally at estimated fair value (includes $88 and $176, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)

    16,950       10,461  

Accrued investment income (includes $14 and $16, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)

    4,716       4,344  

Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables (includes $3 and $12, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)

    22,939       22,481  

Deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired

    24,604       24,619  

Goodwill

    10,024       11,935  

Other assets (includes $6 and $5, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)

    8,123       7,984  

Separate account assets

    237,373       203,023  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

  $ 846,285     $ 796,226  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities and Equity

   

Liabilities

   

Future policy benefits

  $ 191,068     $ 184,275  

Policyholder account balances

    226,882       217,700  

Other policy-related balances

    15,836       15,599  

Policyholder dividends payable

    817       774  

Policyholder dividend obligation

    3,909       2,919  

Payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions

    38,493       33,716  

Bank deposits

    6,515       10,507  

Short-term debt

    100       686  

Long-term debt (includes $2,733 and $3,068, respectively, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities)

    19,621       23,692  

Collateral financing arrangements

    4,196       4,647  

Junior subordinated debt securities

    3,192       3,192  

Current income tax payable

    451       193  

Deferred income tax liability

    9,275       6,395  

Other liabilities (includes $41 and $60, respectively, relating to variable interest entities; and $0 and $7,626, respectively, under the fair value option)

    24,007       30,914  

Separate account liabilities

    237,373       203,023  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    781,735       738,232  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (Note 12)

   

Redeemable noncontrolling interests in partially owned consolidated subsidiaries

    152       105  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Equity

   

MetLife, Inc.’s stockholders’ equity:

   

Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share; 200,000,000 shares authorized: 84,000,000 shares issued and outstanding; $2,100 aggregate liquidation preference

    1       1  

Common stock, par value $0.01 per share; 3,000,000,000 shares authorized; 1,065,840,714 and 1,061,150,915 shares issued at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively; 1,062,646,827 and 1,057,957,028 shares outstanding at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively

    11       11  

Additional paid-in capital

    26,964       26,782  

Retained earnings

    25,920       24,814  

Treasury stock, at cost; 3,193,887 shares at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011

    (172     (172

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

    11,325       6,083  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total MetLife, Inc.’s stockholders’ equity

    64,049       57,519  

Noncontrolling interests

    349       370  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total equity

    64,398       57,889  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities and equity

  $ 846,285     $ 796,226  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income

For the Three Months and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 (Unaudited)

(In millions, except per share data)

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011  

Revenues

        

Premiums

   $ 9,096     $ 9,342     $ 27,386     $ 27,190  

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     2,131       1,998       6,306       5,856  

Net investment income

     5,517       4,252       16,436       14,658  

Other revenues

     455       720       1,445       1,878  

Net investment gains (losses):

        

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities

     (57     (95     (310     (525

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to other comprehensive income (loss)

     10        (189     39       (5

Other net investment gains (losses)

     69       229       119       221   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total net investment gains (losses)

     22        (55     (152     (309

Net derivative gains (losses)

     (718     4,196       (604     4,233  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenues

     16,503       20,453       50,817       53,506  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Expenses

        

Policyholder benefits and claims

     8,943       9,018       26,958       26,376  

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     2,102       738       5,681       4,104  

Policyholder dividends

     355       384       1,050       1,130  

Goodwill impairment

     1,868              1,868         

Other expenses

     4,245       5,198       13,341       13,987  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

     17,513       15,338       48,898       45,597  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income tax

     (1,010     5,115       1,919       7,909  

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     (53     1,673       710       2,481  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

     (957     3,442       1,209       5,428  

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax

            8       17       (1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

     (957     3,450       1,226       5,427  

Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (3     (6     29       (6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to MetLife, Inc.

     (954     3,456       1,197       5,433  

Less:

 

Preferred stock dividends

     30       30       91       91  
 

Preferred stock redemption premium

                          146  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders

   $ (984   $ 3,426     $ 1,106     $ 5,196  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive income (loss)

   $ 1,655     $ 6,966     $ 6,474     $ 11,291  

Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of income tax

     19        (12     35       (21
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to MetLife, Inc.

   $ 1,636     $ 6,978     $ 6,439     $ 11,312  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders per common share:

        

Basic

   $ (0.92   $ 3.22     $ 1.02      $ 4.91  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Diluted

   $ (0.92   $ 3.20     $ 1.01      $ 4.86  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders per common share:

        

Basic

   $ (0.92   $ 3.23     $ 1.04      $ 4.91  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Diluted

   $ (0.92   $ 3.21     $ 1.03      $ 4.86  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Equity

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012 (Unaudited)

(In millions)

 

                                  Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)                    
    Preferred
Stock
    Common
Stock
    Additional
Paid-in
Capital
    Retained
Earnings
    Treasury
Stock
at Cost
    Net
Unrealized
Investment
Gains (Losses)
    Other-Than-
Temporary
Impairments
    Foreign
Currency
Translation
Adjustments
    Defined
Benefit
Plans
Adjustment
    Total
MetLife,  Inc.’s
Stockholders’
Equity
    Noncontrolling
Interests (1)
    Total
Equity
 

Balance at December 31, 2011

  $ 1     $ 11     $ 26,782     $ 24,814     $ (172   $ 9,115     $ (441   $ (648   $ (1,943   $ 57,519     $ 370     $ 57,889  

Stock-based compensation

        182                   182         182  

Dividends on preferred stock

          (91               (91       (91

Change in equity of noncontrolling interests

                        (56     (56

Net income (loss)

          1,197                 1,197       24       1,221  

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax

              4,908       170       89       75       5,242       11       5,253  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at September 30, 2012

  $ 1     $ 11     $ 26,964     $ 25,920     $ (172   $ 14,023     $ (271   $ (559   $ (1,868   $ 64,049     $ 349     $ 64,398  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests excludes gains (losses) of redeemable noncontrolling interests in partially owned consolidated subsidiaries of $5 million.

See accompanying notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Equity — (Continued)

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011 (Unaudited)

(In millions)

 

 

                                  Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)                    
    Preferred
Stock
    Common
Stock
    Additional
Paid-in
Capital
    Retained
Earnings
    Treasury
Stock
at Cost
    Net
Unrealized
Investment
Gains (Losses)
    Other-Than-
Temporary
Impairments
    Foreign
Currency
Translation
Adjustments
    Defined
Benefit
Plans
Adjustment
    Total
MetLife,  Inc.’s
Stockholders’
Equity
    Noncontrolling
Interests (1)
    Total
Equity
 

Balance at December 31, 2010

  $ 1     $ 10     $ 26,423     $ 21,363     $ (172   $ 3,356     $ (366   $ (541   $ (1,449   $ 48,625     $ 371     $ 48,996  

Cumulative effect of change in accounting
principle, net of income tax (Note 1)

          (1,917       132         13         (1,772     (6     (1,778
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at January 1, 2011

    1       10       26,423       19,446       (172     3,488       (366     (528     (1,449     46,853       365       47,218  

Redemption of convertible preferred stock

        (2,805                 (2,805       (2,805

Preferred stock redemption premium

          (146               (146       (146

Common stock issuance—newly issued shares

      1       2,949                   2,950         2,950  

Stock-based compensation

        177                   177         177  

Dividends on preferred stock

          (91               (91       (91

Change in equity of noncontrolling interests

                        48       48  

Net income (loss)

          5,433                 5,433       1       5,434  

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of
income tax

              5,584       (51     281       65       5,879       (22     5,857  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at September 30, 2011

  $ 1     $ 11     $ 26,744     $ 24,642     $ (172   $ 9,072     $ (417   $ (247   $ (1,384   $ 58,250     $ 392     $ 58,642  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests excludes gains (losses) of redeemable noncontrolling interests in partially owned consolidated subsidiaries of ($7) million.

See accompanying notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

8


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 (Unaudited)

(In millions)

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
             2012                     2011          

Net cash provided by operating activities

   $ 15,288     $ 9,034  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities

    

Sales, maturities and repayments of:

    

Fixed maturity securities

     78,296       81,918  

Equity securities

     1,011       1,342  

Mortgage loans

     6,696       8,784  

Real estate and real estate joint ventures

     669       856  

Other limited partnership interests

     690       852  

Purchases of:

    

Fixed maturity securities

     (91,998     (95,660

Equity securities

     (499     (869

Mortgage loans

     (7,585     (12,248

Real estate and real estate joint ventures

     (595     (608

Other limited partnership interests

     (1,017     (849

Cash received in connection with freestanding derivatives

     1,560       2,841  

Cash paid in connection with freestanding derivatives

     (2,534     (3,102

Net change in securitized reverse residential mortgage loans

     (1,198       

Sale of interest in joint venture

            265  

Net change in policy loans

     (116     (84

Net change in short-term investments

     2,825       (6,508

Net change in other invested assets

     (206     (169

Other, net

     (74     (104
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

     (14,075     (23,343
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities

    

Policyholder account balances:

    

Deposits

     69,438       69,911  

Withdrawals

     (64,718     (67,001

Net change in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions

     4,777       7,661  

Net change in bank deposits

     (4,052     296  

Net change in short-term debt

     (586     145  

Long-term debt issued

     750       1,346  

Long-term debt repaid

     (1,106     (1,192

Collateral financing arrangements repaid

     (349       

Cash received in connection with collateral financing arrangements

            100  

Cash paid in connection with collateral financing arrangements

     (44       

Debt issuance costs

     (7     (1

Net change in liability for securitized reverse residential mortgage loans

     1,198         

Common stock issued, net of issuance costs

            2,950  

Stock options exercised

     89       77  

Redemption of convertible preferred stock

            (2,805

Preferred stock redemption premium

            (146

Dividends on preferred stock

     (91     (91

Other, net

     (47     (68
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash provided by financing activities

     5,252       11,182  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Effect of change in foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents balances

     24       133  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Change in cash and cash equivalents

     6,489       (2,994

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

     10,461       13,046  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

   $ 16,950     $ 10,052  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents, subsidiaries held-for-sale, beginning of period

   $      $ 89  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents, subsidiaries held-for-sale, end of period

   $      $ 51  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents, from continuing operations, beginning of period

   $ 10,461     $ 12,957  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents, from continuing operations, end of period

   $ 16,950     $ 10,001  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:

    

Net cash paid during the period for:

    

Interest

   $ 946     $ 1,184  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax

   $ 442     $ 668  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-cash transactions during the period:

    

Real estate and real estate joint ventures acquired in satisfaction of debt

   $ 334     $ 106  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Collateral financing arrangements repaid

   $ 102     $   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Redemption of advances agreements in long-term debt (1)

   $ 3,806     $   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Issuance of funding agreements in policyholder account balances (1)

   $ 3,806     $   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

  

 

 

(1)

See Note 2.

See accompanying notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

9


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

1. Business, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Business

“MetLife” or the “Company” refers to MetLife, Inc., a Delaware corporation incorporated in 1999, its subsidiaries and affiliates. MetLife is a leading global provider of insurance, annuities and employee benefit programs throughout the United States, Japan, Latin America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Through its subsidiaries and affiliates, MetLife offers life insurance, annuities, property & casualty insurance, and other financial services to individuals, as well as group insurance and retirement & savings products and services to corporations and other institutions.

MetLife is organized into six segments: Retail; Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits; Corporate Benefit Funding; and Latin America (collectively, “The Americas”); Asia; and Europe, the Middle East and Africa (“EMEA”). See Note 17 for information on the reorganization of the Company’s segments and continued realignment of certain products and businesses among its existing segments during 2012, which were retrospectively applied.

Basis of Presentation

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to adopt accounting policies and make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

Certain international subsidiaries have a fiscal year-end of November 30. Accordingly, the Company’s interim condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the assets and liabilities of such subsidiaries as of August 31, 2012 and November 30, 2011 and the operating results of such subsidiaries for the three months and nine months ended August 31, 2012 and 2011.

In applying the Company’s accounting policies, management makes subjective and complex judgments that frequently require estimates about matters that are inherently uncertain. Many of these policies, estimates and related judgments are common in the insurance and financial services industries; others are specific to the Company’s business and operations. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

The accompanying interim condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of MetLife, Inc. and its subsidiaries, as well as partnerships and joint ventures in which the Company has control, and variable interest entities (“VIEs”) for which the Company is the primary beneficiary. Closed block assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses are combined on a line-by-line basis with the assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses outside the closed block based on the nature of the particular item. See Note 9. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

The Company uses the equity method of accounting for investments in equity securities in which it has a significant influence or more than a 20% interest and for real estate joint ventures and other limited partnership interests in which it has more than a minor ownership interest or more than a minor influence over the joint venture’s or partnership’s operations, but does not have a controlling interest and is not the primary beneficiary. The Company uses the cost method of accounting for investments in real estate joint ventures and other limited partnership interests in which it has a minor equity investment and virtually no influence over the joint venture’s or the partnership’s operations.

Certain amounts in the prior year periods’ interim condensed consolidated financial statements and related footnotes thereto have been reclassified to conform with the 2012 presentation as discussed throughout the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. See “— Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements” for discussion of accounting pronouncements adopted in the first quarter of 2012, which were retrospectively applied.

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The accompanying interim condensed consolidated financial statements are unaudited and reflect all adjustments (including normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly the consolidated financial position of the Company at September 30, 2012, its consolidated results of operations and comprehensive income for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, its consolidated statements of equity for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, and its consolidated statements of cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, in conformity with GAAP. Interim results are not necessarily indicative of full year performance. The December 31, 2011 consolidated balance sheet data was derived from audited consolidated financial statements included in MetLife, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, as revised by MetLife, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on May 23, 2012 (as revised, the “2011 Annual Report”), which include all disclosures required by GAAP. Therefore, these interim condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Company included in the 2011 Annual Report.

Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements

Effective January 1, 2012, the Company adopted new guidance regarding comprehensive income that defers the effective date pertaining to reclassification adjustments out of accumulated other comprehensive income. The amendments in this guidance are being made to allow the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) time to re-deliberate whether to present on the face of the financial statements the effects of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income on the components of net income and other comprehensive income for all periods presented. All other requirements in the new comprehensive income standard are not affected by this guidance, including the requirement to report comprehensive income either in a single continuous financial statement or in two separate but consecutive financial statements on an annual basis.

On January 1, 2012, the Company adopted new guidance regarding comprehensive income, which was retrospectively applied, that provides companies with the option to present the total of comprehensive income, components of net income, and the components of other comprehensive income either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements in annual financial statements. The objective of the standard is to increase the prominence of items reported in other comprehensive income and to facilitate convergence of GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”). The standard eliminates the option to present components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in stockholders’ equity. The amendments in this guidance do not change the items that must be reported in other comprehensive income or when an item of other comprehensive income must be reclassified in net income. The Company adopted the two-statement approach for annual financial statements.

Effective January 1, 2012, the Company adopted new guidance on goodwill impairment testing that simplifies how an entity tests goodwill for impairment. This new guidance allows an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value as a basis for determining whether it needs to perform the quantitative two-step goodwill impairment test. Only if an entity determines, based on qualitative assessment, that it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s fair value is less than its carrying value will it be required to calculate the fair value of the reporting unit. The adoption did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Effective January 1, 2012, the Company adopted new guidance regarding fair value measurements that establishes common requirements for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements in accordance with GAAP and IFRS. Some of the amendments clarify the FASB’s intent on the application of existing fair value measurement requirements. Other amendments change a particular principle or requirement for measuring fair value or for disclosing information about fair value measurements. The adoption did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. See also expanded disclosures in Note 5.

 

11


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Effective January 1, 2012, the Company adopted new guidance regarding effective control in repurchase agreements. The guidance removes from the assessment of effective control the criterion requiring the transferor to have the ability to repurchase or redeem the financial assets. The adoption did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

On January 1, 2012, the Company adopted new guidance regarding accounting for deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”), which was retrospectively applied. The guidance specifies that only costs related directly to successful acquisition of new or renewal contracts can be capitalized as DAC; all other acquisition-related costs must be expensed as incurred. Under the new guidance, advertising costs may only be included in DAC if the capitalization criteria in the direct-response advertising guidance in Subtopic 340-20, Other Assets and Deferred Costs—Capitalized Advertising Costs, are met. As a result, certain direct marketing, sales manager compensation and administrative costs previously capitalized by the Company will no longer be deferred.

The following table presents the effects of the retrospective application of the adoption of such new accounting guidance to the Company’s previously reported consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income:

 

    Three Months
Ended
September 30, 2011
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30, 2011
 
    As Previously
Reported
    Adjustment     As Adjusted     As Previously
Reported
    Adjustment     As Adjusted  
    (In millions)  

Revenues

           

Net investment income

  $ 4,253 (1)    $ (1   $ 4,252     $ 14,663 (1)    $ (5   $ 14,658  

Expenses

           

Policyholder benefits and claims

  $ 9,017     $ 1     $ 9,018     $ 26,367     $ 9     $ 26,376  

Other expenses

  $ 5,013     $ 185     $ 5,198     $ 13,410     $ 577     $ 13,987  

Income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income tax

  $ 5,302 (1)    $ (187   $ 5,115     $ 8,500 (1)    $ (591   $ 7,909  

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

  $ 1,734     $ (61   $ 1,673     $ 2,680 (1)    $ (199   $ 2,481  

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

  $ 3,568 (1)    $ (126   $ 3,442     $ 5,820 (1)    $ (392   $ 5,428  

Net income (loss)

  $ 3,576     $ (126   $ 3,450     $ 5,819     $ (392   $ 5,427  

Net income (loss) attributable to MetLife, Inc.

  $ 3,582     $ (126   $ 3,456     $ 5,825     $ (392   $ 5,433  

Net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders

  $ 3,552     $ (126   $ 3,426     $ 5,588     $ (392   $ 5,196  

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders per common share:

           

Basic

  $ 3.35     $ (0.13   $ 3.22     $ 5.29     $ (0.38   $ 4.91  

Diluted

  $ 3.33     $ (0.13   $ 3.20     $ 5.24     $ (0.38   $ 4.86  

Net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders per common share:

           

Basic

  $ 3.35     $ (0.12   $ 3.23     $ 5.28     $ (0.37   $ 4.91  

Diluted

  $ 3.33     $ (0.12   $ 3.21     $ 5.23     $ (0.37   $ 4.86  

 

12


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

 

(1)

Amounts in the table above differ from the amounts previously reported in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income due to the inclusion of the impact of discontinued real estate operations of $4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011 and $5 million (net investment income of $6 million, net of $1 million of income tax) for the nine months ended September 30, 2011.

The following table presents the effects of the retrospective application of the adoption of such new accounting guidance to the Company’s previously reported consolidated statement of cash flows:

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30, 2011
 
     As Previously
Reported
    Adjustment     As Adjusted  
     (In millions)  

Net cash provided by operating activities

   $ 9,040     $ (6   $ 9,034  

Net change in other invested assets

   $ (175   $ 6     $ (169

Future Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2011, the FASB issued new guidance regarding balance sheet offsetting disclosures (Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2011-11, Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities), effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods within those annual periods. The guidance should be applied retrospectively for all comparative periods presented. The amendments in ASU 2011-11 require an entity to disclose information about offsetting and related arrangements to enable users of its financial statements to understand the effects of those arrangements on its financial position. Entities are required to disclose both gross information and net information about both instruments and transactions eligible for offset in the statement of financial position and instruments and transactions subject to an agreement similar to a master netting arrangement. The objective of ASU 2011-11 is to facilitate comparison between those entities that prepare their financial statements on the basis of GAAP and those entities that prepare their financial statements on the basis of IFRS. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

In July 2011, the FASB issued new guidance on other expenses (ASU 2011-06, Other Expenses (Topic 720): Fees Paid to the Federal Government by Health Insurers), effective for calendar years beginning after December 31, 2013. The objective of this standard is to address how health insurers should recognize and classify in their income statements fees mandated by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act. The amendments in this standard specify that the liability for the fee should be estimated and recorded in full once the entity provides qualifying health insurance in the applicable calendar year in which the fee is payable with a corresponding deferred cost that is amortized to expense using the straight-line method of allocation unless another method better allocates the fee over the calendar year that it is payable. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements.

2. Acquisitions and Dispositions

2012 Pending Dispositions

MetLife Bank

In December 2011, MetLife Bank, National Association (“MetLife Bank”) and MetLife, Inc. entered into a definitive agreement to sell most of the depository business of MetLife Bank to GE Capital Bank (formerly

 

13


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

known as GE Capital Financial Inc.). In September 2012, this agreement was amended. Under the new structure, MetLife Bank’s depository business would be assumed by GE Capital Retail Bank, rather than by GE Capital Bank. The key terms of the agreement, whereby a GE Capital affiliate will acquire approximately $7 billion in MetLife Bank deposits, including certificates of deposit and money market accounts, remain unchanged. The transaction, as amended, will now be subject to approval by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the “OCC”), the primary regulator of GE Capital Retail Bank, and other customary closing conditions. The approval of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”) will no longer be required for the transaction. Upon completion of the sale, MetLife Bank would take the remaining administrative steps with the FDIC to terminate its deposit insurance and MetLife, Inc. would deregister as a bank holding company.

Additionally, in January 2012, MetLife, Inc. announced it was exiting the business of originating forward residential mortgage loans and, in April 2012, announced it was exiting the businesses of originating and servicing reverse residential mortgage loans and that it and MetLife Bank entered into a definitive agreement to sell MetLife Bank’s reverse mortgage servicing portfolio. In June 2012, the Company sold the majority of MetLife Bank’s reverse mortgage servicing rights and related assets and liabilities, with the remainder sold in September 2012 pursuant to the same sales agreement. Also, in the third quarter of 2012, MetLife began exploring the sale of MetLife Bank’s forward mortgage servicing assets and operations. On November 2, 2012, MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Bank entered into a definitive agreement to sell MetLife Bank’s forward mortgage servicing portfolio to JPMorganChase Bank, N.A. The transaction is subject to certain regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Upon entering into this agreement, MetLife Bank has committed to sell or has otherwise exited most of its operations.

In conjunction with exiting the depository, reverse mortgage servicing rights and mortgage loan origination businesses, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, the Company recorded a net loss of $45 million and $155 million, respectively, net of income tax, related to the loss on disposal of the reverse mortgage servicing rights, lease impairments, other employee-related charges, impairments on mortgage loans, and gains (losses) on securities and mortgage loans sold. The Company expects to incur additional charges of $10 million to $40 million, net of income tax, through 2013, related to exiting these businesses. For reverse mortgage servicing rights, collective net assets of $140 million were sold for $38 million in net consideration. In conjunction with the sale of reverse servicing rights, the Company also de-recognized $9.1 billion of the associated securitized reverse residential mortgage loans that previously did not qualify as sales, as well as the corresponding liability of $9.1 billion related to these mortgage loans, from the consolidated balance sheet. In addition, the total assets and liabilities recorded in the consolidated balance sheets related to the depository and origination businesses were approximately $6.8 billion and $6.0 billion at September 30, 2012, respectively, and $11.3 billion and $10.5 billion at December 31, 2011, respectively. These businesses did not qualify for classification as discontinued operations under GAAP.

MetLife Bank has historically taken advantage of collateralized borrowing opportunities with the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (“FHLB of NY”). In January 2012, MetLife Bank discontinued taking advances from the FHLB of NY. In April 2012, MetLife Bank transferred cash to Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (“MLIC”) related to $3.8 billion of outstanding advances which had been included in long-term debt, and MLIC assumed the associated obligations under terms similar to those of the transferred advances by issuing funding agreements which are included in policyholder account balances (“PABs”).

 

14


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Caribbean Business

In November 2011, the Company entered into an agreement to sell its insurance operations in the Caribbean region, Panama and Costa Rica (the “Caribbean Business”). During the third quarter of 2012, regulatory approvals have been received and closings have taken place in the majority of the jurisdictions. The net assets sold were $127 million. During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, the Company recorded an additional loss of $8 million, net of income tax, related to these closings in net investment gains (losses) within the interim condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report. Sales in the remaining jurisdictions are expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2012, subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions in each of the jurisdictions. The total assets and liabilities recorded in the consolidated balance sheets related to the pending disposition of these insurance operations were $127 million and $102 million at September 30, 2012, respectively, and $859 million and $707 million at December 31, 2011, respectively. The results of the Caribbean Business are included in continuing operations.

2012 Disposition

American Life U.K. Assumption Reinsurance

During July 2012, the Company completed the disposal, through a ceded assumption reinsurance agreement, of certain closed blocks of business in the United Kingdom (“U.K.”), to a third party. Simultaneously, the Company recaptured from the third party the indemnity reinsurance agreement related to this business, previously reinsured as of July 1, 2011. These transactions resulted in a decrease in both insurance and reinsurance assets and liabilities of $4.1 billion. The Company recognized a gain of $34 million, net of income tax, on the transactions for both the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, which was recorded in net investment gains (losses) in the interim condensed consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income.

2010 Acquisition

American Life Insurance Company

Contingent Consideration

Related to the 2010 acquisition of American Life Insurance Company (“American Life”), the Company guaranteed that the fair value of a fund of assets backing certain U.K. unit-linked contracts would have a value of at least £1 per unit on July 1, 2012. If the shortfall between the aggregate guaranteed amount and the fair value of the fund exceeded £106 million (as adjusted for withdrawals), American International Group, Inc. (“AIG”) would pay the difference to the Company and, conversely, if the shortfall at July 1, 2012 was less than £106 million, the Company would pay the difference to AIG. At July 1, 2012, the shortfall between the aggregate guaranteed amount and the fair value of the fund was less than £106 million, resulting in a payment of $108 million by the Company to AIG during the third quarter of 2012. The contingent consideration liability was $109 million at December 31, 2011. The decrease in the contingent consideration liability amount from December 31, 2011 to the date of settlement was recorded in net derivative gains (losses) in the interim condensed consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report.

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Branch Restructuring

During the second quarter of 2012, and in accordance with the closing agreement American Life entered into on March 4, 2010 (the “Closing Agreement”) with the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service, the Company transferred the business of the Japan branch to a newly incorporated wholly-owned subsidiary in Japan, MetLife Alico Life Insurance K. K. (“MLKK”). Also during the second quarter of 2012, the Company revised the estimate of the valuation allowance required for U.S. deferred tax assets relating to the ongoing restructuring of American Life’s other non-U.S. branches. At December 31, 2011, the Company had recorded a valuation allowance related to the branch restructuring of $720 million to reduce the net amount of U.S. deferred tax assets to an amount that is more likely than not realizable. This valuation allowance was reduced to $118 million at September 30, 2012. The net reduction in the valuation allowance was primarily due to the following factors:

 

   

Additional U.S. deferred tax assets that were determined to be realizable;

 

   

Additional tax basis in assets as a result of the gain recognized related to the branch restructuring that more likely than not will not be realizable; and

 

   

A reduction in both the gross deferred tax asset and the valuation allowance related to the completion of the Company’s transfer of the Japan branch business to MLKK.

The following table provides a rollforward of the deferred tax asset valuation allowance associated with the branch restructuring:

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30, 2012
 
     Japan     Other
Non-U.S.
Branches
    Total  
     (In millions)  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 566     $ 154     $ 720  

Income tax expense (benefit)

     10       (11     (1

Deferred income tax expense (benefit) related to unrealized investment gains (losses)

     320       (25     295  

Offsetting reduction in gross deferred tax asset related to the branch transfer to subsidiary

     (896            (896
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $      $ 118     $ 118  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

A liability of $277 million was recognized in purchase accounting at November 1, 2010 for the anticipated and estimated costs associated with restructuring American Life’s foreign branches into subsidiaries in connection with the Closing Agreement. This liability has been reduced based on payments through September 30, 2012. In addition, based on revised estimates of anticipated costs, this liability was reduced by $35 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, which was recorded as a reduction in other expenses in the interim condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income, resulting in a liability of $92 million at September 30, 2012.

 

16


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

3. Investments

Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale

Presented below is certain information about fixed maturity and equity securities for the periods shown. The unrealized loss amounts presented below include the noncredit loss component of other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses:

 

    September 30, 2012  
    Cost or
Amortized
Cost
    Gross Unrealized     Estimated
Fair
Value
    % of
Total
 
       Gains     Temporary
Losses
    OTTI
Losses
     
    (In millions)        

Fixed Maturity Securities:

           

U.S. corporate securities

  $ 102,483     $ 11,975     $ 516     $      $ 113,942       30.1

Foreign corporate securities (1)

    60,235       5,400       379       (1     65,257       17.3  

Foreign government securities

    52,205       5,323       123              57,405       15.2  

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

    44,964       6,489       5              51,448       13.6  

Residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”)

    38,788       2,685       454       428       40,591       10.7  

Commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”)

    18,495       1,029       84              19,440       5.1  

Asset-backed securities (“ABS”)

    14,809       370       160       14       15,005       4.0  

State and political subdivision securities

    12,812       2,184       79              14,917       4.0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

  $ 344,791     $ 35,455     $ 1,800     $ 441     $ 378,005       100.0
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Equity Securities:

           

Common stock

  $ 1,999     $ 112     $ 42     $      $ 2,069       73.8

Non-redeemable preferred stock

    839       52       157              734       26.2  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total equity securities

  $ 2,838     $ 164     $ 199     $      $ 2,803       100.0
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

    December 31, 2011  
    Cost or
Amortized
Cost
    Gross Unrealized     Estimated
Fair
Value
       
      Gains     Temporary
Losses
    OTTI
Losses
      % of
Total
 
    (In millions)        

Fixed Maturity Securities:

           

U.S. corporate securities

  $ 98,621     $ 8,544     $ 1,380     $      $ 105,785       30.2

Foreign corporate securities

    61,568       3,789       1,338       1       64,018       18.3  

Foreign government securities

    49,840       3,053       357              52,536       15.0  

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

    34,132       5,882       2              40,012       11.4  

RMBS

    42,092       2,281       1,033       703       42,637       12.2  

CMBS

    18,565       730       218       8       19,069       5.4  

ABS

    13,018       278       305       12       12,979       3.7  

State and political subdivision securities

    11,975       1,416       156              13,235       3.8  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

  $ 329,811     $ 25,973     $ 4,789     $ 724     $ 350,271       100.0
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Equity Securities:

           

Common stock

  $ 2,219     $ 83     $ 97     $      $ 2,205       72.9

Non-redeemable preferred stock

    989       31       202              818       27.1  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total equity securities

  $ 3,208     $ 114     $ 299     $      $ 3,023       100.0
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

(1)

OTTI losses as presented above represent the noncredit portion of OTTI losses that is included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). OTTI losses include both the initial recognition of noncredit losses, and the effects of subsequent increases and decreases in estimated fair value for those fixed maturity securities that were previously noncredit loss impaired. The noncredit loss component of OTTI losses for foreign corporate securities was in an unrealized gain (loss) position of $1 million at September 30, 2012 due to increases in estimated fair value subsequent to initial recognition of noncredit losses on such securities. See also “— Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses).”

The Company held non-income producing fixed maturity securities with an estimated fair value of $66 million and $62 million with unrealized gains (losses) of $4 million and ($19) million at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

Concentrations of Credit Risk — Summary. The Company was not exposed to any concentrations of credit risk of any single issuer within its fixed maturity securities and equity securities greater than 10% of the Company’s equity, other than the government and agency securities summarized in the table below at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     Carrying Value (1)  
     (In millions)  

U.S. Treasury and agency securities included in:

     

Fixed maturity securities

   $ 51,448      $ 40,012  

Short-term investments

     11,553        15,775  

Cash equivalents

     3,050         1,748  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Treasury and agency securities

   $ 66,051      $ 57,535  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Japan government and agency securities included in:

     

Fixed maturity securities

   $ 21,925      $ 21,003  

Short-term investments

     333          

Cash equivalents

     623          

Total Japan government and agency securities

   $ 22,881      $ 21,003  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Represents estimated fair value for fixed maturity securities, and for short-term investments and cash equivalents, estimated fair value or amortized cost, which approximates estimated fair value.

Maturities of Fixed Maturity Securities. The amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed maturity securities, by contractual maturity date (excluding scheduled sinking funds), were as follows at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     Amortized
Cost
     Estimated
Fair
Value
     Amortized
Cost
     Estimated
Fair
Value
 
     (In millions)  

Due in one year or less

   $ 23,569      $ 23,771      $ 16,747      $ 16,862  

Due after one year through five years

     69,820        73,205        62,819        64,414  

Due after five years through ten years

     82,628        92,009        82,694        88,036  

Due after ten years

     96,682        113,984        93,876        106,274  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal

     272,699        302,969        256,136        275,586  

RMBS, CMBS and ABS

     72,092        75,036        73,675        74,685  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

   $ 344,791      $ 378,005      $ 329,811      $ 350,271  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

18


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities due to the exercise of call or prepayment options. Fixed maturity securities not due at a single maturity date have been included in the above table in the year of final contractual maturity. RMBS, CMBS and ABS are shown separately in the table, as they are not due at a single maturity.

Evaluating Available-for-Sale Securities for Other-Than-Temporary Impairment

As described more fully in Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report, the Company performs a regular evaluation, on a security-by-security basis, of its available-for-sale securities holdings, including fixed maturity securities, equity securities and perpetual hybrid securities, in accordance with its impairment policy in order to evaluate whether such investments are other-than-temporarily impaired.

Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses)

The components of net unrealized investment gains (losses), included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), were as follows at:

 

    September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
    (In millions)  

Fixed maturity securities

  $ 33,589     $ 21,096  

Fixed maturity securities with noncredit OTTI losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

    (441     (724
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

    33,148       20,372  

Equity securities

    15       (167

Derivatives

    1,508       1,514  

Other

    (11     72  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Subtotal

    34,660       21,791  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Amounts allocated from:

   

Insurance liability loss recognition

    (6,902     (3,996

DAC and value of business acquired (“VOBA”) related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

    25       47  

DAC and VOBA

    (2,616     (1,800

Policyholder dividend obligation

    (3,909     (2,919
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Subtotal

    (13,402     (8,668

Deferred income tax benefit (expense) related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

    145       236  

Deferred income tax benefit (expense)

    (7,652     (4,694
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net unrealized investment gains (losses)

    13,751       8,665  

Net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to noncontrolling interests

    1       9  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to MetLife, Inc.

  $ 13,752     $ 8,674  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

19


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The changes in fixed maturity securities with noncredit OTTI losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), were as follows:

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30, 2012
    Year
Ended
December 31, 2011
 
     (In millions)  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ (724   $ (601

Noncredit OTTI losses recognized (1)

     (39     31  

Securities sold with previous noncredit OTTI loss

     119       125  

Subsequent changes in estimated fair value

     203       (279
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ (441   $ (724
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Noncredit OTTI losses recognized, net of DAC, were ($48) million and $33 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and year ended December 31, 2011, respectively.

The changes in net unrealized investment gains (losses) were as follows:

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30, 2012
 
     (In millions)  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 8,674  

Fixed maturity securities on which noncredit OTTI losses have been recognized

     283  

Unrealized investment gains (losses) during the period

     12,586  

Unrealized investment gains (losses) relating to:

  

Insurance liability gain (loss) recognition

     (2,906

DAC and VOBA related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

     (22

DAC and VOBA

     (816

Policyholder dividend obligation

     (990

Deferred income tax benefit (expense) related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

     (91

Deferred income tax benefit (expense)

     (2,958
  

 

 

 

Net unrealized investment gains (losses)

     13,760  

Net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (8
  

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 13,752  
  

 

 

 

Change in net unrealized investment gains (losses)

   $ 5,086  

Change in net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (8
  

 

 

 

Change in net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to MetLife, Inc.

   $ 5,078  
  

 

 

 

Continuous Gross Unrealized Losses and OTTI Losses for Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale by Sector

Presented below is certain information about the estimated fair value and gross unrealized losses of fixed maturity and equity securities in an unrealized loss position. The unrealized loss amounts presented below include the noncredit component of OTTI loss. Fixed maturity securities on which a noncredit OTTI loss has been recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are categorized by length of time as being “less than 12 months” or “equal to or greater than 12 months” in a continuous unrealized loss position based on

 

20


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

the point in time that the estimated fair value initially declined to below the amortized cost basis and not the period of time since the unrealized loss was deemed a noncredit OTTI loss.

 

     September 30, 2012  
     Less than 12 Months      Equal to or Greater
than 12 Months
     Total  
     Estimated
Fair
Value
     Gross
Unrealized
Losses
     Estimated
Fair
Value
     Gross
Unrealized
Losses
     Estimated
Fair
Value
     Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
     (In millions, except number of securities)  

Fixed Maturity Securities:

                 

U.S. corporate securities

   $ 3,380      $ 91      $ 4,377      $ 425      $ 7,757      $ 516  

Foreign corporate securities

     3,006        88        4,062        290        7,068        378  

Foreign government securities

     1,935        53        864        70        2,799        123  

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

     1,475        5                        1,475        5  

RMBS

     531        37        4,822        845        5,353        882  

CMBS

     524        10        829        74        1,353        84  

ABS

     1,363        11        1,783        163        3,146        174  

State and political subdivision securities

     154        1        352        78        506        79  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

   $ 12,368      $ 296      $ 17,089      $ 1,945      $ 29,457      $ 2,241  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Equity Securities:

                 

Common stock

   $ 271      $ 35      $ 109      $ 7      $ 380      $ 42  

Non-redeemable preferred stock

     10                328        157        338        157  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total equity securities

   $ 281      $ 35      $ 437      $ 164      $ 718      $ 199  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total number of securities in an
unrealized loss position

     1,342           1,587           
  

 

 

       

 

 

          

 

     December 31, 2011  
     Less than 12 Months      Equal to or Greater
than 12 Months
     Total  
     Estimated
Fair
Value
     Gross
Unrealized
Losses
     Estimated
Fair
Value
     Gross
Unrealized
Losses
     Estimated
Fair
Value
     Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
     (In millions, except number of securities)  

Fixed Maturity Securities:

                 

U.S. corporate securities

   $ 15,642      $ 590      $ 5,135      $ 790      $ 20,777      $ 1,380  

Foreign corporate securities

     12,618        639        5,957        700        18,575        1,339  

Foreign government securities

     11,227        230        1,799        127        13,026        357  

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

     2,611        1        50        1        2,661        2  

RMBS

     4,040        547        4,724        1,189        8,764        1,736  

CMBS

     2,825        135        678        91        3,503        226  

ABS

     4,972        103        1,316        214        6,288        317  

State and political subdivision securities

     177        2        1,007        154        1,184        156  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

   $ 54,112      $ 2,247      $ 20,666      $ 3,266      $ 74,778      $ 5,513  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Equity Securities:

                 

Common stock

   $ 581      $ 96      $ 5      $ 1      $ 586      $ 97  

Non-redeemable preferred stock

     204        30        370        172        574        202  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total equity securities

   $ 785      $ 126      $ 375      $ 173      $ 1,160      $ 299  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total number of securities in an
unrealized loss position

     3,978           1,963           
  

 

 

       

 

 

          

 

21


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Aging of Gross Unrealized Losses and OTTI Losses for Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale

Presented below is certain information about the aging and severity of gross unrealized losses on fixed maturity and equity securities, including the portion of OTTI loss on fixed maturity securities recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at:

 

    September 30, 2012  
    Cost or Amortized Cost          Gross Unrealized Losses       Number of Securities  
    Less than
20%
     20% or
more
     Less than
20%
    20% or
more
    Less than
20%
     20% or
more
 
    (In millions, except number of securities)  

Fixed Maturity Securities:

              

Less than six months

  $ 9,978      $ 430      $ 140     $ 111       914        66  

Six months or greater but less than nine months

    1,265        147        37       49       116        40  

Nine months or greater but less than twelve months

    1,209        233        50       69       175        40  

Twelve months or greater

    15,871        2,565        930       855       1,303        166  
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

Total

  $ 28,323      $ 3,375      $ 1,157     $ 1,084       
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

Percentage of amortized cost

          4     32     
       

 

 

   

 

 

      

Equity Securities:

              

Less than six months

  $ 195      $ 102      $ 11     $ 28       77        32  

Six months or greater but less than nine months

    37                4              16          

Nine months or greater but less than twelve months

    26        42        2       14       9        2  

Twelve months or greater

    225        290        16       124       37        15  
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

Total

  $ 483      $ 434      $ 33     $ 166       
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

Percentage of cost

          7     38     
       

 

 

   

 

 

      

 

     December 31, 2011  
     Cost or Amortized Cost       Gross Unrealized Losses     Number of Securities  
       Less than  
20%
     20% or
more
       Less than  
20%
    20% or
more
    Less than
20%
     20% or
more
 
     (In millions, except number of securities)  

Fixed Maturity Securities:

               

Less than six months

   $ 49,249      $ 4,736      $ 1,346     $ 1,332       3,260        320  

Six months or greater but less than nine months

     4,104        1,049        279       349       375        63  

Nine months or greater but less than twelve months

     1,160        288        55       93       143        14  

Twelve months or greater

     17,590        2,115        1,216       843       1,523        167  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

Total

   $ 72,103      $ 8,188      $ 2,896     $ 2,617       
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

Percentage of amortized cost

           4     32     
        

 

 

   

 

 

      

Equity Securities:

               

Less than six months

   $ 714      $ 376      $ 64     $ 123       154        42  

Six months or greater but less than nine months

     22        8        2       4       19        3  

Nine months or greater but less than twelve months

     18                2              8          

Twelve months or greater

     98        223        8       96       24        20  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

Total

   $ 852      $ 607      $ 76     $ 223       
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

Percentage of cost

           9     37     
        

 

 

   

 

 

      

 

22


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Equity securities with gross unrealized losses of 20% or more for twelve months or greater increased from $96 million at December 31, 2011 to $124 million at September 30, 2012. As shown in the section “— Evaluating Temporarily Impaired Available-for-Sale Securities” below, over 90% of the equity securities with gross unrealized losses of 20% or more for twelve months or greater at September 30, 2012 were financial services industry investment grade non-redeemable preferred stock, of which 72% were rated A or better.

Concentration of Gross Unrealized Losses and OTTI Losses for Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale

The gross unrealized losses related to fixed maturity and equity securities, including the portion of OTTI losses on fixed maturity securities recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) were $2.4 billion and $5.8 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The concentration, calculated as a percentage of gross unrealized losses (including OTTI losses), by sector and industry was as follows at:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  

Sector:

    

RMBS

     36     30

U.S. corporate securities

     21       24  

Foreign corporate securities

     16       23  

ABS

     7       5  

Foreign government securities

     5       6  

CMBS

     4       4  

State and political subdivision securities

     3       3  

Other

     8       5  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

     100     100
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Industry:

    

Mortgage-backed

     40     34

Finance

     23       27  

Asset-backed

     7       5  

Utility

     7       8  

Foreign government securities

     5       6  

Consumer

     5       6  

State and political subdivision securities

     3       3  

Communications

     3       3  

Industrial

     2       2  

Other

     5       6  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

     100     100
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

23


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Evaluating Temporarily Impaired Available-for-Sale Securities

The following table presents fixed maturity and equity securities, each with gross unrealized losses of greater than $10 million, the number of securities, total gross unrealized losses and percentage of total gross unrealized losses at:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Fixed Maturity
Securities
    Equity
Securities
    Fixed Maturity
Securities
    Equity
Securities
 
     (In millions, except number of securities)  

Number of securities

     37       5       96       8  

Total gross unrealized losses

   $ 676     $ 87     $ 1,703     $ 117  

Percentage of total gross unrealized losses

     30     44     31     39

Fixed maturity and equity securities, each with gross unrealized losses greater than $10 million, decreased $1.1 billion during the nine months ended September 30, 2012. The decline in, or improvement in, gross unrealized losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 was primarily attributable to narrowing credit spreads and a decrease in interest rates. These securities were included in the Company’s OTTI review process.

As of September 30, 2012, $973 million of unrealized losses were from fixed maturity securities with an unrealized loss position of 20% or more of amortized cost for six months or greater. Of the $973 million, $430 million, or 44%, was related to unrealized losses on investment grade securities. Unrealized losses on investment grade securities were principally related to widening credit spreads or rising interest rates since purchase. Of the $973 million, $543 million, or 56%, was related to unrealized losses on below investment grade securities. Unrealized losses on below investment grade securities were principally related to non-agency RMBS (primarily sub- prime residential mortgage loans and alternative residential mortgage loans), U.S. and foreign corporate securities (primarily financial services and utility industry securities) and foreign government securities (primarily European sovereign bonds) and were the result of significantly wider credit spreads resulting from higher risk premiums since purchase, largely due to economic and market uncertainties including concerns over the financial services sector, unemployment levels, sovereign debt levels and valuations of residential real estate supporting non-agency RMBS. See Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for the factors management considers in evaluating these corporate, sovereign and structured securities. See “— Aging of Gross Unrealized Losses and OTTI Losses for Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale” for a discussion of equity securities with an unrealized loss position of 20% or more of cost for 12 months or greater.

In the Company’s impairment review process, the duration and severity of an unrealized loss position for equity securities are given greater weight and consideration than for fixed maturity securities. An extended and severe unrealized loss position on a fixed maturity security may not have any impact on the ability of the issuer to service all scheduled interest and principal payments and the Company’s evaluation of recoverability of all contractual cash flows or the ability to recover an amount at least equal to its amortized cost based on the present value of the expected future cash flows to be collected. In contrast, for an equity security, greater weight and consideration are given by the Company to a decline in market value and the likelihood such market value decline will recover.

 

24


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The following table presents certain information about the Company’s equity securities available-for-sale with gross unrealized losses of 20% or more at September 30, 2012:

 

           Non-Redeemable Preferred Stock  
     All Equity
Securities
    All Types of
Non-Redeemable

Preferred Stock
    Investment Grade  
       All Industries     Financial Services Industry  
     Gross
Unrealized
Losses
    Gross
Unrealized
Losses
     % of All
Equity
Securities
    Gross
Unrealized
Losses
    % of All
Non-Redeemable
Preferred Stock
    Gross
Unrealized
Losses
     % of All
Industries
    % A
Rated or
Better
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)           (In millions)               

Less than six months

   $ 28     $ 7        25   $ 6       86   $ 6        100     100

Six months or greater but less
than twelve months

     14       14        100     2       14     2        100     100

Twelve months or greater

     124       124        100     115       93     115        100     72
  

 

 

   

 

 

      

 

 

     

 

 

      

All equity securities with gross unrealized losses of 20% or more

   $ 166     $ 145        87   $ 123       85   $ 123        100     74
  

 

 

   

 

 

      

 

 

     

 

 

      

In connection with the equity securities impairment review process, the Company evaluated its holdings in non-redeemable preferred stock, particularly those in the financial services sector. The Company considered several factors including whether there has been any deterioration in credit of the issuer and the likelihood of recovery in value of non-redeemable preferred stock with a severe or an extended unrealized loss. The Company also considered whether any issuers of non-redeemable preferred stock with an unrealized loss held by the Company, regardless of credit rating, have deferred any dividend payments. No such dividend payments had been deferred.

With respect to common stock holdings, the Company considered the duration and severity of the unrealized losses for securities in an unrealized loss position of 20% or more; and the duration of unrealized losses for securities in an unrealized loss position of less than 20% in an extended unrealized loss position (i.e., 12 months or greater).

Based on the Company’s current evaluation of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position in accordance with its impairment policy, and the Company’s current intentions and assessments (as applicable to the type of security) about holding, selling and any requirements to sell these securities, the Company has concluded that these securities are not other-than-temporarily impaired.

Future OTTIs will depend primarily on economic fundamentals, issuer performance (including changes in the present value of future cash flows expected to be collected), changes in credit ratings, changes in collateral valuation, changes in interest rates and changes in credit spreads. If economic fundamentals or any of the above factors deteriorate, additional OTTIs may be incurred in upcoming quarters.

 

25


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Trading and Other Securities

The table below presents certain information about the Company’s trading securities that are actively purchased and sold (“Actively Traded Securities”) and other securities for which the fair value option (“FVO”) has been elected at:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

Actively Traded Securities

   $ 565     $ 473  

FVO general account securities

     178       267  

FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments

     15,199       17,411  

FVO securities held by CSEs

     53       117  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total trading and other securities — at estimated fair value

   $ 15,995     $ 18,268  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Actively Traded Securities — at estimated fair value

   $ 565     $ 473  

Short sale agreement liabilities — at estimated fair value

     (121     (127
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net long/short position — at estimated fair value

   $ 444     $ 346  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investments pledged to secure short sale agreement liabilities

   $ 609     $ 558  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

See Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for a discussion of FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments and “— Variable Interest Entities” for a discussion of consolidated securitization entities (“CSEs”) included in the table above. See “— Net Investment Income” and “— Net Investment Gains (Losses)” for the net investment income recognized on trading and other securities and the related changes in estimated fair value subsequent to purchase included in earnings for securities still held as of the end of the respective periods.

 

26


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Net Investment Gains (Losses)

The components of net investment gains (losses) were as follows:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (In millions)  

Total gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities:

        

Total OTTI losses recognized

   $ (57   $ (95   $ (310   $ (525

Less: Noncredit portion of OTTI losses transferred to and recognized in other comprehensive income (loss)

     10       (189     39       (5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net OTTI losses on fixed maturity securities recognized in earnings

     (47     (284     (271     (530

Fixed maturity securities — net gains (losses) on sales and disposals (1)

     80       101       146       79  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities

     33       (183     (125     (451
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other net investment gains (losses):

        

Equity securities

     3       (3     13       (37

Trading and other securities — FVO general account securities - changes in estimated fair value subsequent to purchase

     1       (3     4       (3

Mortgage loans (1)

            45       49       160  

Real estate and real estate joint ventures

     (15     139       (35     144  

Other limited partnership interests

     (7            (18     8  

Other investment portfolio gains (losses)

     15              (20     (2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Subtotal — investment portfolio gains (losses) (1)

     30       (5     (132     (181
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FVO CSEs — changes in estimated fair value:

        

Commercial mortgage loans

     9       (64     8       (39

Securities

            2              1  

Long-term debt — related to commercial mortgage loans

     (2     56       8       48  

Long-term debt — related to securities

     8       (1     (2     (8

Non-investment portfolio gains (losses) (2)

     (23     (43     (34     (130
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Subtotal FVO CSEs and non-investment portfolio gains (losses)

     (8     (50     (20     (128
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total net investment gains (losses)

   $ 22     $ (55   $ (152   $ (309
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Investment portfolio gains (losses) for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012 includes a net gain (loss) of ($26) million and $34 million, respectively, as a result of the pending disposition of certain operations of MetLife Bank, which is comprised of gains (losses) on securities and mortgage loans sold of $0 and $75 million, and impairments on mortgage loans of ($26) million and ($41) million, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively. See Note 2.

 

(2)

Non-investment portfolio gains (losses) for both the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012 includes gains of $41 million, related to certain dispositions as more fully described in Note 2. Non-investment portfolio gains (losses) for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011 includes a loss of $0 and $87 million, respectively, in connection with a disposition and a goodwill impairment loss of $65 million related to MetLife Bank. See Notes 2 and 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for further information about the 2011 transactions.

 

27


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

See “— Variable Interest Entities” for discussion of CSEs included in the table above.

Gains (losses) from foreign currency transactions included within net investment gains (losses) were ($79) million and ($56) million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $94 million and $80 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

Proceeds from sales or disposals of fixed maturity and equity securities resulting in a net investment gain (loss) and the components of fixed maturity and equity securities net investment gains (losses) are as shown in the tables below. Investment gains and losses on sales of securities are determined on a specific identification basis.

 

    Three Months Ended September 30,  
          2012               2011           2012             2011             2012             2011      
    Fixed Maturity Securities     Equity Securities     Total  
    (In millions)  

Proceeds

  $ 12,004     $ 19,368     $ 231     $ 169     $ 12,235     $ 19,537  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross investment gains

  $ 192     $ 252     $ 23     $ 9     $ 215     $ 261  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross investment losses

    (112     (151     (11     (7     (123     (158
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total OTTI losses recognized in earnings:

           

Credit-related

    (36     (269                   (36     (269

Other (1)

    (11     (15     (9     (5     (20     (20
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total OTTI losses recognized in earnings

    (47     (284     (9     (5     (56     (289
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net investment gains (losses)

  $ 33     $ (183   $ 3     $ (3   $ 36     $ (186
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

    Nine Months Ended September 30,  
        2012             2011             2012             2011             2012             2011      
    Fixed Maturity Securities     Equity Securities     Total  
    (In millions)  

Proceeds

  $ 47,023     $ 55,216     $ 594     $ 974     $ 47,617     $ 56,190  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross investment gains

  $ 742     $ 680     $ 56     $ 83     $ 798     $ 763  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross investment losses

    (596     (601     (17     (62     (613     (663
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total OTTI losses recognized in earnings:

           

Credit-related

    (177     (382                   (177     (382

Other (1)

    (94     (148     (26     (58     (120     (206
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total OTTI losses recognized in earnings

    (271     (530     (26     (58     (297     (588
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net investment gains (losses)

  $ (125   $ (451   $ 13     $ (37   $ (112   $ (488
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

  

 

 

(1)

Other OTTI losses recognized in earnings include impairments on equity securities, impairments on perpetual hybrid securities classified within fixed maturity securities where the primary reason for the impairment was the severity and/or the duration of an unrealized loss position and fixed maturity securities where there is an intent-to-sell or it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of the decline in estimated fair value.

 

28


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Fixed maturity security OTTI losses recognized in earnings related to the following sectors and industries within the U.S. and foreign corporate securities sector:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
     Nine Months
Ended

September 30,
 
     2012      2011      2012      2011  
     (In millions)  

Sector:

           

U.S. and foreign corporate securities — by industry:

           

Utility

   $ 10      $ 6      $ 61      $ 7  

Finance

             7        32        48  

Communications

     1        12        19        26  

Transportation

     11                17          

Consumer

     4        6        16        35  

Industrial

     4                5          
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total U.S. and foreign corporate securities

     30        31        150        116  

RMBS

     15        34        61        100 (1) 

CMBS

             5        50        8  

ABS

     2        8        9        11 (1) 

State and political subdivision securities

                     1          

Foreign government securities

             206                295  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 47      $ 284      $ 271      $ 530  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

  

 

 

(1)

See Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for discussion of a reclassification from the ABS sector to the RMBS sector for securities backed by sub-prime residential mortgage loans.

Equity security OTTI losses recognized in earnings related to the following sectors and industries:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
     Nine Months
Ended

September 30,
 
     2012      2011      2012      2011  
     (In millions)  

Sector:

           

Common stock

   $  9      $ 5      $ 26      $ 20  

Non-redeemable preferred stock

                             38  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $  9      $ 5      $ 26      $ 58  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Industry:

           

Financial services industry — perpetual hybrid securities

   $       $       $       $ 38  

Other industries

     9        5        26        20  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 9      $ 5      $ 26      $ 58  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

29


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Credit Loss Rollforward

Presented below is a rollforward of the cumulative credit loss component of OTTI loss recognized in earnings on fixed maturity securities still held for which a portion of the OTTI loss was recognized in other comprehensive income (loss):

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (In millions)  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 391     $ 401     $ 471     $ 443  

Additions:

        

Initial impairments — credit loss OTTI on securities not previously impaired

     2       6       39       32  

Additional impairments — credit loss OTTI on securities previously impaired

     15       39       41       79  

Reductions:

        

Sales, maturities, pay downs and prepayments during the period on securities previously impaired as credit loss OTTI

     (36     (8     (155     (63

Securities impaired to net present value of expected future cash flows

            (1     (23     (45

Increases in cash flows — accretion of previous credit loss OTTI

     (1            (2     (9
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 371     $ 437     $ 371     $ 437  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

30


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Net Investment Income

The components of net investment income were as follows:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012      2011     2012      2011  
     (In millions)  

Investment income:

          

Fixed maturity securities

   $ 3,825      $ 3,770     $ 11,370      $ 11,244  

Equity securities

     26        28       96        106  

Trading and other securities — Actively Traded Securities and FVO general account securities (1)

     24        (38     68        6  

Mortgage loans

     811        806       2,405        2,331  

Policy loans

     157        162       471        482  

Real estate and real estate joint ventures

     173        206       630        539  

Other limited partnership interests

     145        180       593        582  

Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments

     40        41       115        131  

International joint ventures (2)

     7        6       11        (8

Other

     27        82       148        151  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal

     5,235        5,243       15,907        15,564  

Less: Investment expenses

     276        268       793        762  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal, net

     4,959        4,975       15,114        14,802  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Trading and other securities — FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments (1)

     512        (824     1,010        (437

Securitized reverse residential mortgage loans

     3               177          

FVO CSEs:

          

Commercial mortgage loans

     42        95       131        286  

Securities

     1        6       4        7  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal

     558        (723     1,322        (144
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net investment income

   $ 5,517      $ 4,252     $ 16,436      $ 14,658  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Changes in estimated fair value subsequent to purchase for securities still held as of the end of the respective periods included in net investment income were:

 

                                           
     Three Months
Ended

September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012      2011     2012      2011  
     (In millions)  

Actively Traded Securities and FVO general account securities

   $ 6      $ (46   $ 36      $ (25

FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments

   $ 247      $ (873   $ 741      $ (641

 

(2)

Amounts are presented net of changes in estimated fair value of derivatives related to economic hedges of the Company’s investment in these equity method international joint venture investments that do not qualify for hedge accounting of $0 for both the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, and $0 and ($23) million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

See “— Variable Interest Entities” for discussion of CSEs included in the table above.

 

31


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Securities Lending

As described more fully in Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report, the Company participates in a securities lending program whereby blocks of securities are loaned to third parties. These transactions are treated as financing arrangements and the associated cash collateral received is recorded as a liability. The Company is obligated to return the cash collateral received to its counterparties.

Elements of the securities lending program are presented below at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

Securities on loan: (1)

     

Amortized cost

   $ 25,106      $ 20,613  

Estimated fair value

   $ 29,302      $ 24,072  

Cash collateral on deposit from counterparties (2)

   $ 29,932      $ 24,223  

Security collateral on deposit from counterparties

   $ 63      $ 371  

Reinvestment portfolio — estimated fair value

   $ 30,210      $ 23,940  

 

 

(1)

Included within fixed maturity securities, short-term investments, equity securities and cash and cash equivalents.

 

(2)

Included within payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions.

Security collateral on deposit from counterparties in connection with the securities lending transactions may not be sold or repledged, unless the counterparty is in default, and is not reflected in the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

Invested Assets on Deposit, Held in Trust and Pledged as Collateral

Invested assets on deposit, held in trust and pledged as collateral are presented in the table below at estimated fair value for cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, fixed maturity securities, equity securities, and trading and other securities and at carrying value for mortgage loans.

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

Invested assets on deposit (1)

   $ 2,329      $ 1,660  

Invested assets held in trust (2)

     11,866        11,135  

Invested assets pledged as collateral (3)

     22,390        29,899  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total invested assets on deposit, held in trust and pledged as collateral

   $ 36,585      $ 42,694  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

The Company has invested assets on deposit with regulatory agencies consisting primarily of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, fixed maturity securities and equity securities.

 

(2)

The Company held in trust cash and securities, primarily fixed maturity and equity securities, to satisfy requirements under certain collateral financing agreements and certain reinsurance agreements.

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

(3)

The Company has pledged fixed maturity securities, mortgage loans and cash and cash equivalents in connection with various agreements and transactions, including funding and advances agreements (see Notes 8 and 11 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report), collateralized borrowings (see Note 11 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report), collateral financing arrangements (see Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report), derivative transactions (see Note 4), and short sale agreements (see “— Trading and Other Securities”).

Mortgage Loans

Mortgage loans are summarized as follows at:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Carrying

Value
    % of

Total
    Carrying

Value
    % of

Total
 
     (In millions)           (In millions)        

Mortgage loans held-for-investment:

        

Commercial

   $ 41,941       70.9   $ 40,440       56.1

Agricultural

     12,600       21.3       13,129       18.2  

Residential

     818       1.4       689       1.0  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Subtotal

     55,359       93.6       54,258       75.3  

Valuation allowances

     (354     (0.6     (481     (0.7
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Subtotal mortgage loans held-for-investment, net

     55,005       93.0       53,777       74.6  

Commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs

     2,879       4.9       3,138       4.4  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans held-for-investment, net

     57,884       97.9       56,915       79.0  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Mortgage loans held-for-sale:

        

Residential (1)

     64       0.1       3,064       4.2  

Mortgage loans — lower of amortized cost or estimated fair value (1)

     1,222       2.0       4,462       6.2  

Securitized reverse residential mortgage loans (1)

                   7,652       10.6  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans held-for-sale

     1,286       2.1       15,178       21.0  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans, net

   $ 59,170       100.0   $ 72,093       100.0
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

As described in Note 2, the Company is exiting the businesses of originating forward and reverse residential mortgage loans, intends to dispose of the depository business of MetLife Bank and has sold MetLife Bank’s reverse mortgage servicing rights resulting in the disposition of certain mortgage loans and the de-recognition of its securitized reverse residential mortgage loans.

See “— Variable Interest Entities” for discussion of CSEs included in the table above.

Certain of the Company’s real estate joint ventures have mortgage loans with the Company. The carrying values of such mortgage loans were $184 million and $286 million at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The following tables present certain information about mortgage loans held-for-investment and valuation allowances, by portfolio segment, at:

 

     Commercial      Agricultural      Residential      Total  
     (In millions)  

September 30, 2012:

           

Mortgage loans:

           

Evaluated individually for credit losses

   $ 336      $ 107      $ 13      $ 456  

Evaluated collectively for credit losses

     41,605        12,493        805        54,903  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans

     41,941        12,600        818        55,359  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Valuation allowances:

           

Specific credit losses

     73        22        2        97  

Non-specifically identified credit losses

     227        30                257  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total valuation allowances

     300        52        2        354  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Mortgage loans, net of valuation allowance

   $ 41,641      $ 12,548      $ 816      $ 55,005  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

December 31, 2011:

           

Mortgage loans:

           

Evaluated individually for credit losses

   $ 96      $ 159      $ 13      $ 268  

Evaluated collectively for credit losses

     40,344        12,970        676        53,990  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans

     40,440        13,129        689        54,258  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Valuation allowances:

           

Specific credit losses

     59        45        1        105  

Non-specifically identified credit losses

     339        36        1        376  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total valuation allowances

     398        81        2        481  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Mortgage loans, net of valuation allowance

   $ 40,042      $ 13,048      $ 687      $ 53,777  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

34


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The following tables present the changes in the valuation allowance, by portfolio segment:

 

     Mortgage Loan Valuation Allowances  
     Commercial     Agricultural     Residential     Total  
     (In millions)  

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2012:

        

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 300     $ 59     $ 2     $ 361  

Provision (release)

     2       6              8  

Charge-offs, net of recoveries

     (2     (8            (10

Transfers to held-for-sale

            (5            (5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 300     $ 52     $ 2     $ 354  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2011:

        

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 469     $ 79     $ 18     $ 566  

Provision (release)

     (41     3       2       (36

Charge-offs, net of recoveries

                   (1     (1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 428     $ 82     $ 19     $ 529  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012:

        

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 398     $ 81     $ 2     $ 481  

Provision (release)

     (96            6       (90

Charge-offs, net of recoveries

     (2     (24            (26

Transfers to held-for-sale

            (5     (6     (11
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 300     $ 52     $ 2     $ 354  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011:

        

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 562     $ 88     $ 14     $ 664  

Provision (release)

     (134     (3     7       (130

Charge-offs, net of recoveries

            (3     (2     (5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 428     $ 82     $ 19     $ 529  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

See Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for a discussion of all credit quality indicators presented herein. Recorded investment data presented herein is prior to valuation allowance. Unpaid principal balance data presented herein is generally prior to charge-offs.

 

35


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Commercial Mortgage Loans — by Credit Quality Indicators with Estimated Fair Value. Presented below is certain information about the credit quality of the commercial mortgage loans held-for-investment at:

 

     Commercial  
     Recorded Investment               
     Debt Service Coverage Ratios      Total      % of
Total
    Estimated
Fair Value
     % of
Total
 
     > 1.20x      1.00x - 1.20x      < 1.00x             
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

September 30, 2012:

                   

Loan-to-value ratios:

                   

Less than 65%

   $ 29,834      $ 734      $ 460      $ 31,028        74.0   $ 33,279        75.0

65% to 75%

     6,520        326        201        7,047        16.8       7,367        16.6  

76% to 80%

     788        131        317        1,236        2.9       1,270        2.8  

Greater than 80%

     1,780        514        336        2,630        6.3       2,484        5.6  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 38,922      $ 1,705      $ 1,314      $ 41,941        100.0   $ 44,400        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

December 31, 2011:

          

Loan-to-value ratios:

                   

Less than 65%

   $ 24,983      $ 448      $ 564      $ 25,995        64.3   $ 27,581        65.5

65% to 75%

     8,275        336        386        8,997        22.3       9,387        22.3  

76% to 80%

     1,150        98        226        1,474        3.6       1,473        3.5  

Greater than 80%

     2,714        880        380        3,974        9.8       3,664        8.7  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 37,122      $ 1,762      $ 1,556      $ 40,440        100.0   $ 42,105        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Agricultural Mortgage Loans — by Credit Quality Indicator. Presented below is certain information about the credit quality of agricultural mortgage loans held-for-investment. The estimated fair value of agricultural mortgage loans held-for-investment was $13.1 billion and $13.6 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

 

     Agricultural  
     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Recorded
Investment
     % of
Total
    Recorded
Investment
     % of
Total
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

Loan-to-value ratios:

          

Less than 65%

   $ 11,651        92.5   $ 11,802        89.9

65% to 75%

     658        5.2       874        6.7  

76% to 80%

     35        0.3       76        0.6  

Greater than 80%

     256        2.0       377        2.8  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 12,600        100.0   $ 13,129        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

36


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Residential Mortgage Loans — by Credit Quality Indicator. Presented below is certain information about the credit quality of residential mortgage loans held-for-investment. The estimated fair value of residential mortgage loans held-for-investment was $880 million and $737 million at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

 

     Residential  
     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Recorded
Investment
     % of
Total
    Recorded
Investment
     % of
Total
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

Performance indicators:

          

Performing

   $ 792        96.8   $ 671        97.4

Nonperforming

     26        3.2       18        2.6  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 818        100.0   $ 689        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Past Due and Interest Accrual Status of Mortgage Loans. The Company has a high quality, well performing, mortgage loan portfolio, with approximately 99% of all mortgage loans classified as performing at both September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011. The Company defines delinquent mortgage loans consistent with industry practice, when interest and principal payments are past due as follows: commercial and residential mortgage loans — 60 days or more and agricultural mortgage loans — 90 days or more. Presented below is the recorded investment of past due and interest accrual status of mortgage loans held-for-investment at:

 

    Past Due     Greater than 90 Days Past Due
Still Accruing Interest
    Nonaccrual Status  
    September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
    (In millions)  

Commercial

  $ 81     $ 63     $      $      $ 193     $ 63  

Agricultural

    88       146       55       29       69       157  

Residential

    26       8                     26       17  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 195     $ 217     $ 55     $ 29     $ 288     $ 237  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Impaired Mortgage Loans. Presented below is certain information about impaired mortgage loans, included within mortgage loans held-for-investment, including those modified in a troubled debt restructuring, by portfolio segment, at:

 

     Impaired Mortgage Loans  
     Loans with a Valuation Allowance      Loans without
a Valuation Allowance
     All Impaired Loans  
     Unpaid
Principal
Balance
     Recorded
Investment
     Valuation
Allowances
     Carrying
Value
     Unpaid
Principal
Balance
     Recorded
Investment
     Unpaid
Principal
Balance
     Carrying
Value
 
     (In millions)  

September 30, 2012:

                       

Commercial

   $ 347      $ 336      $ 73      $ 263      $ 152      $ 150      $ 499      $ 413  

Agricultural

     110        107        22        85        82        77        192        162  

Residential

     13        13        2        11                        13        11  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 470      $ 456      $ 97      $ 359      $ 234      $ 227      $ 704      $ 586  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

December 31, 2011:

                       

Commercial

   $ 96      $ 96      $ 59      $ 37      $ 252      $ 237      $ 348      $ 274  

Agricultural

     160        159        45        114        71        69        231        183  

Residential

     13        13        1        12        1        1        14        13  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 269      $ 268      $ 105      $ 163      $ 324      $ 307      $ 593      $ 470  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

37


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The average recorded investment in impaired mortgage loans held-for-investment, including those modified in a troubled debt restructuring, and the related interest income, by portfolio segment, was:

 

     Impaired Mortgage Loans  
     Average
Recorded  Investment
     Interest Income Recognized  
            Cash Basis      Accrual Basis  
     (In millions)  

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2012:

  

  

Commercial

   $ 395      $ 1      $   

Agricultural

     191        1        1  

Residential

     12                  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 598      $ 2      $ 1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2011:

        

Commercial

   $ 330      $       $   

Agricultural

     229        1          

Residential

     17                  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 576      $ 1      $   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012:

        

Commercial

   $ 334      $ 4      $   

Agricultural

     210        2        3  

Residential

     13                  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 557      $ 6      $ 3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011:

        

Commercial

   $ 308      $ 1      $   

Agricultural

     258        3        1  

Residential

     26                  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 592      $ 4      $ 1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Mortgage Loans Modified in a Troubled Debt Restructuring. See Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for a discussion of loan modifications that are classified as troubled debt restructuring and the types of concessions typically granted. The number of mortgage

 

38


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

loans and carrying value of mortgage loans modified during the period in a troubled debt restructuring was as follows:

 

     Mortgage Loans Modified in a Troubled Debt Restructuring  
     Number of
Mortgage
Loans
     Carrying Value after Specific
Valuation Allowance
 
            Pre-Modification      Post-Modification  
            (In millions)  

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2012:

        

Commercial

           $       $   

Agricultural

     5        17        16  

Residential

                       
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     5      $ 17      $ 16  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2011:

        

Commercial

     3      $ 88      $ 49  

Agricultural

     2        10        10  

Residential

     3        1        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     8      $ 99      $ 60  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012:

        

Commercial

           $       $   

Agricultural

     5        17        16  

Residential

                       
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     5      $ 17      $ 16  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011:

        

Commercial

     5      $ 147      $ 109  

Agricultural

     9        36        37  

Residential

     3        1        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     17      $ 184      $ 147  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, there were no mortgage loans with subsequent payment default which were modified as a troubled debt restructuring during the previous 12 months. Payment default is determined in the same manner as delinquency status — when interest and principal payments are past due as described above.

Cash Equivalents

The carrying value of cash equivalents, which includes securities and other investments with an original or remaining maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase, was $7.9 billion and $5.0 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

Purchased Credit Impaired Investments

See Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for information about investments acquired with evidence of credit quality deterioration since origination and for which it was probable at the acquisition date that the Company would be unable to collect all contractually required payments.

 

39


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Variable Interest Entities

The Company holds investments in certain entities that are VIEs. In certain instances, the Company holds both the power to direct the most significant activities of the entity, as well as an economic interest in the entity and, as such, is deemed to be the primary beneficiary or consolidator of the entity. The following table presents the total assets and total liabilities relating to VIEs for which the Company has concluded that it is the primary beneficiary and which are consolidated at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011. Creditors or beneficial interest holders of VIEs where the Company is the primary beneficiary have no recourse to the general credit of the Company, as the Company’s obligation to the VIEs is limited to the amount of its committed investment.

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     Total
Assets
     Total
Liabilities
     Total
Assets
     Total
Liabilities
 
     (In millions)  

CSEs (1)

   $ 2,949      $ 2,748      $ 3,299      $ 3,103  

MRSC collateral financing arrangement (2)

     3,420                3,333          

Other limited partnership interests

     338        12        360        6  

Trading and other securities

     93                163          

Other invested assets

     85                102        1  

Real estate joint ventures

     11        14        16        18  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 6,896      $ 2,774      $ 7,273      $ 3,128  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

  

 

 

(1)

The Company consolidates former qualified special purpose entities (“QSPEs”) that are structured as CMBS and former QSPEs that are structured as collateralized debt obligations. The assets of these entities can only be used to settle their respective liabilities, and under no circumstances is the Company liable for any principal or interest shortfalls should any arise. The Company’s exposure was limited to that of its remaining investment in the former QSPEs of $180 million and $172 million at estimated fair value at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The long-term debt presented below bears interest primarily at fixed rates ranging from 2.25% to 5.57%, payable primarily on a monthly basis and is expected to be repaid over the next four years. Interest expense related to these obligations, included in other expenses, was $40 million and $125 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $97 million

 

40


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

 

and $281 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. The assets and liabilities of these CSEs, at estimated fair value, were as follows at:

 

    September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
    (In millions)  

Assets:

   

Mortgage loans held-for-investment (commercial mortgage loans)

  $ 2,879     $ 3,138  

Trading and other securities

    53       117  

Accrued investment income

    14       16  

Cash and cash equivalents

    3       21  

Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables

           7  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

  $ 2,949     $ 3,299  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities:

   

Long-term debt

  $ 2,733     $ 3,068  

Other liabilities

    15       35  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

  $ 2,748     $ 3,103  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(2)

See Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for a description of the MetLife Reinsurance Company of South Carolina (“MRSC”) collateral financing arrangement. These assets consist of the following, at estimated fair value, except for mortgage loans, which are presented at carrying value, at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale:

     

ABS

   $ 1,528      $ 1,356  

U.S. corporate securities

     897        833  

RMBS

     527        502  

CMBS

     273        369  

Foreign corporate securities

     91        126  

State and political subdivision securities

     33        39  

Mortgage loans

     49        49  

Cash and cash equivalents

     22        59  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 3,420      $ 3,333  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The following table presents the carrying amount and maximum exposure to loss relating to VIEs for which the Company holds significant variable interests but is not the primary beneficiary and which have not been consolidated at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     Carrying
Amount
     Maximum
Exposure
to Loss (1)
     Carrying
Amount
     Maximum
Exposure
to Loss (1)
 
     (In millions)  

Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale:

           

RMBS (2)

   $ 40,591      $ 40,591      $ 42,637      $ 42,637  

CMBS (2)

     19,440        19,440        19,069        19,069  

ABS (2)

     15,005        15,005        12,979        12,979  

U.S. corporate securities

     2,802        2,802        2,911        2,911  

Foreign corporate securities

     2,319        2,319        2,087        2,087  

Other limited partnership interests

     4,619        6,194        4,340        6,084  

Other invested assets

     969        1,268        799        1,194  

Trading and other securities

     573        573        671        671  

Mortgage loans

     361        361        456        456  

Real estate joint ventures

     119        131        61        79  

Equity securities available-for-sale:

           

Non-redeemable preferred stock

     31        31                  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 86,829      $ 88,715      $ 86,010      $ 88,167  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

The maximum exposure to loss relating to the fixed maturity, equity and trading and other securities is equal to their estimated fair value. The maximum exposure to loss relating to the other limited partnership interests, real estate joint ventures and mortgage loans is equal to the carrying amounts plus any unfunded commitments of the Company. Such a maximum loss would be expected to occur only upon bankruptcy of the issuer, borrower or investee. For certain of its investments in other invested assets, the Company’s return is in the form of income tax credits which are guaranteed by a creditworthy third party. For such investments, the maximum exposure to loss is equal to the carrying amounts plus any unfunded commitments, reduced by income tax credits guaranteed by third parties of $321 million and $267 million at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

 

(2)

For these variable interests, the Company’s involvement is limited to that of a passive investor.

As described in Note 12, the Company makes commitments to fund partnership investments in the normal course of business. Excluding these commitments, the Company did not provide financial or other support to investees designated as VIEs during the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011.

4. Derivative Financial Instruments

Accounting for Derivative Financial Instruments

Derivatives are financial instruments whose values are derived from interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, credit spreads and/or other financial indices. Derivatives may be exchange-traded or contracted in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market. The Company uses a variety of derivatives, including swaps, forwards, futures and option contracts, to manage various risks relating to its ongoing business operations. To a lesser extent, the Company uses credit default swaps and structured interest rate swaps to synthetically replicate investment risks and returns which are not readily available in the cash market. The Company also purchases certain securities, issues certain insurance policies and investment contracts and engages in certain reinsurance agreements that have embedded derivatives.

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Freestanding derivatives are carried in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets either as assets within other invested assets or as liabilities within other liabilities at estimated fair value as determined through the use of quoted market prices for exchange-traded derivatives and interest rate forwards to sell certain to be announced securities or through the use of pricing models for OTC derivatives. The determination of estimated fair value of freestanding derivatives, when quoted market values are not available, is based on market standard valuation methodologies and inputs that management believes are consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing the instruments. Derivative valuations can be affected by changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, financial indices, credit spreads, default risk, nonperformance risk, volatility, liquidity and changes in estimates and assumptions used in the pricing models.

Accruals on derivatives are generally recorded in accrued investment income or within other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. However, accruals that are not scheduled to settle within one year are included with the derivative carrying value in other invested assets or other liabilities.

The Company does not offset the fair value amounts recognized for derivatives executed with the same counterparty under the same master netting agreement.

If a derivative is not designated as an accounting hedge or its use in managing risk does not qualify for hedge accounting, changes in the estimated fair value of the derivative are generally reported in net derivative gains (losses) except for those (i) in policyholder benefits and claims for economic hedges of variable annuity guarantees included in future policy benefits; (ii) in net investment income for (a) economic hedges of equity method investments in joint ventures, (b) all derivatives held in relation to the trading portfolios, and (c) derivatives held within contractholder-directed unit-linked investments; (iii) in other revenues for derivatives held in connection with the Company’s mortgage banking activities; and (iv) in other expenses for economic hedges of foreign currency exposure related to the Company’s international subsidiaries. The fluctuations in estimated fair value of derivatives which have not been designated for hedge accounting can result in significant volatility in net income.

To qualify for hedge accounting, at the inception of the hedging relationship, the Company formally documents its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedging transaction, as well as its designation of the hedge as either (i) a hedge of the estimated fair value of a recognized asset or liability (“fair value hedge”); (ii) a hedge of a forecasted transaction or of the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability (“cash flow hedge”); or (iii) a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation. In this documentation, the Company sets forth how the hedging instrument is expected to hedge the designated risks related to the hedged item and sets forth the method that will be used to retrospectively and prospectively assess the hedging instrument’s effectiveness and the method which will be used to measure ineffectiveness. A derivative designated as a hedging instrument must be assessed as being highly effective in offsetting the designated risk of the hedged item. Hedge effectiveness is formally assessed at inception and periodically throughout the life of the designated hedging relationship. Assessments of hedge effectiveness and measurements of ineffectiveness are also subject to interpretation and estimation and different interpretations or estimates may have a material effect on the amount reported in net income.

The accounting for derivatives is complex and interpretations of the primary accounting guidance continue to evolve in practice. Judgment is applied in determining the availability and application of hedge accounting designations and the appropriate accounting treatment under such accounting guidance. If it was determined that hedge accounting designations were not appropriately applied, reported net income could be materially affected.

 

43


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Under a fair value hedge, changes in the estimated fair value of the hedging derivative, including amounts measured as ineffectiveness, and changes in the estimated fair value of the hedged item related to the designated risk being hedged, are reported within net derivative gains (losses). The estimated fair values of the hedging derivatives are exclusive of any accruals that are separately reported in the consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income within interest income or interest expense to match the location of the hedged item.

Under a cash flow hedge, changes in the estimated fair value of the hedging derivative measured as effective are reported within other comprehensive income (loss), a separate component of stockholders’ equity, and the deferred gains or losses on the derivative are reclassified into the consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income when the Company’s earnings are affected by the variability in cash flows of the hedged item. Changes in the estimated fair value of the hedging instrument measured as ineffectiveness are reported within net derivative gains (losses). The estimated fair values of the hedging derivatives are exclusive of any accruals that are separately reported in the consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income within interest income or interest expense to match the location of the hedged item.

In a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation, changes in the estimated fair value of the hedging derivative that are measured as effective are reported within other comprehensive income (loss) consistent with the translation adjustment for the hedged net investment in the foreign operation. Changes in the estimated fair value of the hedging instrument measured as ineffectiveness are reported within net derivative gains (losses).

The Company discontinues hedge accounting prospectively when: (i) it is determined that the derivative is no longer highly effective in offsetting changes in the estimated fair value or cash flows of a hedged item; (ii) the derivative expires, is sold, terminated, or exercised; (iii) it is no longer probable that the hedged forecasted transaction will occur; or (iv) the derivative is de-designated as a hedging instrument.

When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is determined that the derivative is not highly effective in offsetting changes in the estimated fair value or cash flows of a hedged item, the derivative continues to be carried in the consolidated balance sheets at its estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized currently in net derivative gains (losses). The carrying value of the hedged recognized asset or liability under a fair value hedge is no longer adjusted for changes in its estimated fair value due to the hedged risk, and the cumulative adjustment to its carrying value is amortized into income over the remaining life of the hedged item. Provided the hedged forecasted transaction is still probable of occurrence, the changes in estimated fair value of derivatives recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) related to discontinued cash flow hedges are released into the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income when the Company’s earnings are affected by the variability in cash flows of the hedged item.

When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is no longer probable that the forecasted transactions will occur on the anticipated date or within two months of that date, the derivative continues to be carried in the consolidated balance sheets at its estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized currently in net derivative gains (losses). Deferred gains and losses of a derivative recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) pursuant to the discontinued cash flow hedge of a forecasted transaction that is no longer probable are recognized immediately in net derivative gains (losses).

In all other situations in which hedge accounting is discontinued, the derivative is carried at its estimated fair value in the consolidated balance sheets, with changes in its estimated fair value recognized in the current period as net derivative gains (losses).

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The Company issues certain products and purchases certain investments that contain embedded derivatives. The Company assesses each identified embedded derivative to determine whether it is required to be bifurcated. If the instrument would not be accounted for in its entirety at estimated fair value and it is determined that the terms of the embedded derivative are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the host contract, and that a separate instrument with the same terms would qualify as a derivative instrument, the embedded derivative is bifurcated from the host contract and accounted for as a freestanding derivative. Such embedded derivatives are carried in the consolidated balance sheets at estimated fair value with the host contract and changes in their estimated fair value are generally reported in net derivative gains (losses) except for those in policyholder benefits and claims related to ceded reinsurance of guaranteed minimum income benefits (“GMIB”). If the Company is unable to properly identify and measure an embedded derivative for separation from its host contract, the entire contract is carried on the balance sheet at estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized in the current period in net investment gains (losses) or net investment income. Additionally, the Company may elect to carry an entire contract on the balance sheet at estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized in the current period in net investment gains (losses) or net investment income if that contract contains an embedded derivative that requires bifurcation.

See Note 5 for information about the fair value hierarchy for derivatives.

Primary Risks Managed by Derivative Financial Instruments and Non-Derivative Financial Instruments

The Company is exposed to various risks relating to its ongoing business operations, including interest rate risk, foreign currency exchange rate risk, credit risk and equity market risk. The Company uses a variety of strategies to manage these risks, including the use of derivative instruments. The following table presents the gross notional amount, estimated fair value and primary underlying risk exposure of the Company’s derivative financial instruments, excluding embedded derivatives, held at:

 

        September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  

Primary Underlying

Risk Exposure

 

Instrument Type

  Notional
Amount
    Estimated Fair
Value (1)
    Notional
Amount
    Estimated Fair
Value (1)
 
      Assets     Liabilities       Assets     Liabilities  
        (In millions)  

Interest rate

 

Interest rate swaps

  $ 98,609     $ 8,930     $ 2,571     $ 79,733     $ 8,241     $ 2,199  
 

Interest rate floors

    23,366       1,304       174       23,866       1,246       165  
 

Interest rate caps

    49,547       78              49,665       102         
 

Interest rate futures

    12,469       10       20       14,965       25       19  
 

Interest rate options

    16,065       860       12       16,988       896       6  
 

Interest rate forwards

    770       178              14,033       286       91  
 

Synthetic GICs

    4,541                     4,454                

Foreign currency exchange rate

 

Foreign currency swaps

    20,223       846       1,158       16,461       1,172       1,060  
 

Foreign currency forwards

    10,598       79       97       10,149       200       60  
 

Currency futures

    289                     633                
 

Currency options

    2,851       1       46       1,321       6         

Credit

 

Credit default swaps

    13,326       100       41       13,136       326       113  
 

Credit forwards

                         20       4         

Equity market

 

Equity futures

    7,367       65       2       7,053       26       10  
 

Equity options

    21,096       3,096       261       17,099       3,263       179  
 

Variance swaps

    20,056       171       239       18,801       397       75  
 

Total rate of return swaps (“TRRs”)

    2,073       10       90       1,644       10       34  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
 

Total

  $ 303,246     $ 15,728     $ 4,711     $ 290,021     $ 16,200     $ 4,011  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

45


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

 

 

(1)

The estimated fair value of all derivatives in an asset position is reported within other invested assets in the consolidated balance sheets and the estimated fair value of all derivatives in a liability position is reported within other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.

Interest rate swaps are used by the Company primarily to reduce market risks from changes in interest rates and to alter interest rate exposure arising from mismatches between assets and liabilities (duration mismatches). In an interest rate swap, the Company agrees with another party to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed rate and floating rate interest amounts as calculated by reference to an agreed notional principal amount. These transactions are entered into pursuant to master agreements that provide for a single net payment to be made by the counterparty at each due date. The Company utilizes interest rate swaps in fair value, cash flow and non-qualifying hedging relationships.

The Company also enters into basis swaps to better match the cash flows from assets and related liabilities. In a basis swap, both legs of the swap are floating with each based on a different index. Generally, no cash is exchanged at the outset of the contract and no principal payments are made by either party. A single net payment is usually made by one counterparty at each due date. Basis swaps are included in interest rate swaps in the preceding table. The Company utilizes basis swaps in non-qualifying hedging relationships.

Inflation swaps are used as an economic hedge to reduce inflation risk generated from inflation-indexed liabilities. Inflation swaps are included in interest rate swaps in the preceding table. The Company utilizes inflation swaps in non-qualifying hedging relationships.

Implied volatility swaps are used by the Company primarily as economic hedges of interest rate risk associated with the Company’s investments in mortgage-backed securities. In an implied volatility swap, the Company exchanges fixed payments for floating payments that are linked to certain market volatility measures. If implied volatility rises, the floating payments that the Company receives will increase, and if implied volatility falls, the floating payments that the Company receives will decrease. Implied volatility swaps are included in interest rate swaps in the preceding table. The Company utilizes implied volatility swaps in non-qualifying hedging relationships.

The Company uses structured interest rate swaps to synthetically create investments that are either more expensive to acquire or otherwise unavailable in the cash markets. These transactions are a combination of a derivative and a cash instrument such as a U.S. Treasury, agency, or other fixed maturity security. Structured interest rate swaps are included in interest rate swaps in the preceding table. Structured interest rate swaps are not designated as hedging instruments.

The Company purchases interest rate caps and floors primarily to protect its floating rate liabilities against rises in interest rates above a specified level, and against interest rate exposure arising from mismatches between assets and liabilities (duration mismatches), as well as to protect its minimum rate guarantee liabilities against declines in interest rates below a specified level, respectively. In certain instances, the Company locks in the economic impact of existing purchased caps and floors by entering into offsetting written caps and floors. The Company utilizes interest rate caps and floors in non-qualifying hedging relationships.

In exchange-traded interest rate (Treasury and swap) futures transactions, the Company agrees to purchase or sell a specified number of contracts, the value of which is determined by the different classes of interest rate securities, and to post variation margin on a daily basis in an amount equal to the difference in the daily market values of those contracts. The Company enters into exchange-traded futures with regulated futures commission merchants that are members of the exchange. Exchange-traded interest rate (Treasury and swap) futures are used

 

46


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

primarily to hedge mismatches between the duration of assets in a portfolio and the duration of liabilities supported by those assets, to hedge against changes in value of securities the Company owns or anticipates acquiring and to hedge against changes in interest rates on anticipated liability issuances by replicating Treasury or swap curve performance. The Company utilizes exchange-traded interest rate futures in non-qualifying hedging relationships.

Swaptions are used by the Company to hedge interest rate risk associated with the Company’s long-term liabilities and invested assets. A swaption is an option to enter into a swap with a forward starting effective date. In certain instances, the Company locks in the economic impact of existing purchased swaptions by entering into offsetting written swaptions. The Company pays a premium for purchased swaptions and receives a premium for written swaptions. Swaptions are included in interest rate options in the preceding table. The Company utilizes swaptions in non-qualifying hedging relationships.

The Company writes covered call options on its portfolio of U.S. Treasury securities as an income generation strategy. In a covered call transaction, the Company receives a premium at the inception of the contract in exchange for giving the derivative counterparty the right to purchase the referenced security from the Company at a predetermined price. The call option is “covered” because the Company owns the referenced security over the term of the option. Covered call options are included in interest rate options in the preceding table. The Company utilizes covered call options in non-qualifying hedging relationships.

The Company enters into interest rate forwards to buy and sell securities. The price is agreed upon at the time of the contract and payment for such a contract is made at a specified future date. The Company also uses interest rate forwards to sell to be announced securities as economic hedges against the risk of changes in the fair value of mortgage loans held-for-sale and interest rate lock commitments. The Company utilizes interest rate forwards in cash flow and non-qualifying hedging relationships.

Interest rate lock commitments are short-term commitments to fund mortgage loan applications in process (the pipeline) for a fixed term for a fixed rate or spread. During the term of an interest rate lock commitment, the Company is exposed to the risk that interest rates will change from the rate quoted to the potential borrower. Interest rate lock commitments to fund mortgage loans that will be held-for-sale are considered derivative instruments. Interest rate lock commitments are included in interest rate forwards in the preceding table. Interest rate lock commitments are not designated as hedging instruments.

A synthetic GIC is a contract that simulates the performance of a traditional guaranteed interest contract through the use of financial instruments. Under a synthetic GIC, the policyholder owns the underlying assets. The Company guarantees a rate return on those assets for a premium. Synthetic GICs are not designated as hedging instruments.

Foreign currency derivatives, including foreign currency swaps, foreign currency forwards, currency options, and currency futures contracts, are used by the Company to reduce the risk from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates associated with its assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies. The Company also uses foreign currency forwards and options to hedge the foreign currency exchange rate risk associated with certain of its net investments in foreign operations.

In a foreign currency swap transaction, the Company agrees with another party to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between one currency and another at a fixed exchange rate, generally set at inception, calculated by reference to an agreed upon principal amount. The principal amount of each currency is exchanged at the inception and termination of the currency swap by each party. The Company utilizes foreign currency swaps in fair value, cash flow and non-qualifying hedging relationships.

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

In a foreign currency forward transaction, the Company agrees with another party to deliver a specified amount of an identified currency at a specified future date. The price is agreed upon at the time of the contract and payment for such a contract is made in a different currency at the specified future date. The Company utilizes foreign currency forwards in fair value, net investment in foreign operations and non-qualifying hedging relationships.

In exchange-traded currency futures transactions, the Company agrees to purchase or sell a specified number of contracts, the value of which is determined by referenced currencies, and to post variation margin on a daily basis in an amount equal to the difference in the daily market values of those contracts. The Company enters into exchange-traded futures with regulated futures commission merchants that are members of the exchange. Exchange-traded currency futures are used primarily to hedge currency mismatches between assets and liabilities. The Company utilizes exchange-traded currency futures in non-qualifying hedging relationships.

The Company enters into currency option contracts that give it the right, but not the obligation, to sell the foreign currency amount in exchange for a functional currency amount within a limited time at a contracted price. The contracts may also be net settled in cash, based on differentials in the foreign exchange rate and the strike price. The Company uses currency options to hedge against the foreign currency exposure inherent in certain of its variable annuity products. The Company also uses currency options as an economic hedge of foreign currency exposure related to the Company’s international subsidiaries. The Company utilizes currency options in net investment in foreign operations and non-qualifying hedging relationships.

The Company uses certain of its foreign currency denominated funding agreements to hedge portions of its net investments in foreign operations against adverse movements in exchange rates. Such contracts are included in non-derivative hedging instruments.

Certain credit default swaps are used by the Company to hedge against credit-related changes in the value of its investments. In a credit default swap transaction, the Company agrees with another party, at specified intervals, to pay a premium to hedge credit risk. If a credit event, as defined by the contract, occurs, the contract may be cash settled or it may be settled gross by the delivery of par quantities of the referenced investment equal to the specified swap notional in exchange for the payment of cash amounts by the counterparty equal to the par value of the investment surrendered. The Company utilizes credit default swaps in non-qualifying hedging relationships.

Credit default swaps are also used to synthetically create credit investments that are either more expensive to acquire or otherwise unavailable in the cash markets. These transactions are a combination of a derivative and one or more cash instruments such as U.S. Treasury securities, agency securities or other fixed maturity securities. The Company also enters into certain credit default swaps held in relation to trading portfolios for the purpose of generating profits on short-term differences in price. These credit default swaps are not designated as hedging instruments.

The Company enters into forwards to lock in the price to be paid for forward purchases of certain securities. The price is agreed upon at the time of the contract and payment for the contract is made at a specified future date. When the primary purpose of entering into these transactions is to hedge against the risk of changes in purchase price due to changes in credit spreads, the Company designates these as credit forwards. The Company utilizes credit forwards in cash flow hedging relationships.

In exchange-traded equity futures transactions, the Company agrees to purchase or sell a specified number of contracts, the value of which is determined by the different classes of equity securities, and to post variation margin on a daily basis in an amount equal to the difference in the daily market values of those contracts. The Company enters into exchange-traded futures with regulated futures commission merchants that are members of

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

the exchange. Exchange-traded equity futures are used primarily to hedge liabilities embedded in certain variable annuity products offered by the Company. The Company utilizes exchange-traded equity futures in non-qualifying hedging relationships.

Equity index options are used by the Company primarily to hedge minimum guarantees embedded in certain variable annuity products offered by the Company. To hedge against adverse changes in equity indices, the Company enters into contracts to sell the equity index within a limited time at a contracted price. The contracts will be net settled in cash based on differentials in the indices at the time of exercise and the strike price. Certain of these contracts may also contain settlement provisions linked to interest rates. In certain instances, the Company may enter into a combination of transactions to hedge adverse changes in equity indices within a pre-determined range through the purchase and sale of options. Equity index options are included in equity options in the preceding table. The Company utilizes equity index options in non-qualifying hedging relationships.

Equity variance swaps are used by the Company primarily to hedge minimum guarantees embedded in certain variable annuity products offered by the Company. In an equity variance swap, the Company agrees with another party to exchange amounts in the future, based on changes in equity volatility over a defined period. Equity variance swaps are included in variance swaps in the preceding table. The Company utilizes equity variance swaps in non-qualifying hedging relationships.

TRRs are swaps whereby the Company agrees with another party to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between the economic risk and reward of an asset or a market index and the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), calculated by reference to an agreed notional principal amount. No cash is exchanged at the outset of the contract. Cash is paid and received over the life of the contract based on the terms of the swap. These transactions are entered into pursuant to master agreements that provide for a single net payment to be made by the counterparty at each due date. The Company uses TRRs to hedge its equity market guarantees in certain of its insurance products. TRRs can be used as hedges or to synthetically create investments. The Company utilizes TRRs in non-qualifying hedging relationships.

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Hedging

The following table presents the gross notional amount and estimated fair value of derivatives designated as hedging instruments by type of hedge designation at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments

   Notional
Amount
     Estimated Fair Value      Notional
Amount
     Estimated Fair Value  
      Assets      Liabilities         Assets      Liabilities  
     (In millions)  

Fair value hedges:

                 

Foreign currency swaps

   $ 3,187      $ 312      $ 79      $ 3,220      $ 500      $ 98  

Foreign currency forwards

     2,480        20                1,830        2        10  

Interest rate swaps

     5,306        2,036        100        4,580        1,884        92  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal

     10,973        2,368        179        9,630        2,386        200  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cash flow hedges:

                 

Foreign currency swaps

     8,903        281        363        6,370        352        306  

Interest rate swaps

     3,792        896                3,230        947          

Interest rate forwards

     770        178                965        210          

Credit forwards

                             20        4          
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal

     13,465        1,355        363        10,585        1,513        306  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Foreign operations hedges:

                 

Foreign currency forwards

     2,374        4        53        1,689        53        12  

Currency options

     2,650        1        46                          
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal

     5,024        5        99        1,689        53        12  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total qualifying hedges

   $ 29,462      $ 3,728      $ 641      $ 21,904      $ 3,952      $ 518  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The following table presents the gross notional amount and estimated fair value of derivatives that were not designated or do not qualify as hedging instruments by derivative type at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  

Derivatives Not Designated or Not

Qualifying as Hedging Instruments

   Notional
Amount
     Estimated Fair Value      Notional
Amount
     Estimated Fair Value  
      Assets      Liabilities         Assets      Liabilities  
     (In millions)  

Interest rate swaps

   $ 89,511      $ 5,998      $ 2,471      $ 71,923      $ 5,410      $ 2,107  

Interest rate floors

     23,366        1,304        174        23,866        1,246        165  

Interest rate caps

     49,547        78                49,665        102          

Interest rate futures

     12,469        10        20        14,965        25        19  

Interest rate options

     16,065        860        12        16,988        896        6  

Interest rate forwards

                             13,068        76        91  

Synthetic GICs

     4,541                        4,454                  

Foreign currency swaps

     8,133        253        716        6,871        320        656  

Foreign currency forwards

     5,744        55        44        6,630        145        38  

Currency futures

     289                        633                  

Currency options

     201                        1,321        6          

Credit default swaps

     13,326        100        41        13,136        326        113  

Equity futures

     7,367        65        2        7,053        26        10  

Equity options

     21,096        3,096        261        17,099        3,263        179  

Variance swaps

     20,056        171        239        18,801        397        75  

TRRs

     2,073        10        90        1,644        10        34  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total non-designated or non-qualifying derivatives

   $ 273,784      $ 12,000      $ 4,070      $ 268,117      $ 12,248      $ 3,493  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net Derivative Gains (Losses)

The components of net derivative gains (losses) were as follows:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (In millions)  

Derivatives and hedging gains (losses) (1)

   $ (945   $ 6,504     $ (1,277   $ 5,992  

Embedded derivatives

     227       (2,308     673       (1,759
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total net derivative gains (losses)

   $ (718   $ 4,196     $ (604   $ 4,233  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Includes foreign currency transaction gains (losses) on hedged items in cash flow and non-qualifying hedging relationships, which are not presented elsewhere in this note.

 

51


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The following table presents earned income on derivatives for the:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (In millions)  

Qualifying hedges:

        

Net investment income

   $ 27     $ 28     $ 82     $ 70  

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     39       51       122       169  

Other expenses

     (2     (1     (4     (2

Non-qualifying hedges:

        

Net investment income

     (1     (2     (4     (6

Other revenues

     11       22       44       55  

Net derivative gains (losses)

     109       352       338       357  

Policyholder benefits and claims

     (52     19       (62     19  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ 131     $ 469     $ 516     $ 662  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Fair Value Hedges

The Company designates and accounts for the following as fair value hedges when they have met the requirements of fair value hedging: (i) interest rate swaps to convert fixed rate investments to floating rate investments; (ii) interest rate swaps to convert fixed rate liabilities to floating rate liabilities; (iii) foreign currency swaps to hedge the foreign currency fair value exposure of foreign currency denominated investments and liabilities; and (iv) foreign currency forwards to hedge the foreign currency fair value exposure of foreign currency denominated fixed rate investments.

 

52


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The Company recognizes gains and losses on derivatives and the related hedged items in fair value hedges within net derivative gains (losses). The following table presents the amount of such net derivative gains (losses):

 

Derivatives in Fair Value
Hedging Relationships

 

Hedged Items in Fair Value
Hedging Relationships

  Net Derivative
Gains (Losses)
Recognized
for Derivatives
    Net Derivative
Gains (Losses)
Recognized for
Hedged Items
    Ineffectiveness
Recognized in
Net Derivative
Gains (Losses)
 
        (In millions)  

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2012:

     

Interest rate swaps:

 

Fixed maturity securities

  $ (9   $ 7     $ (2
  PABs (1)     (47     51       4  

Foreign currency swaps:

  Foreign-denominated fixed maturity securities     (2     2         
  Foreign-denominated PABs (2)     66       (68     (2

Foreign currency forwards:

  Foreign-denominated fixed maturity securities     18       (19     (1
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 26     $ (27   $ (1
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2011:

     

Interest rate swaps:

  Fixed maturity securities   $ (26   $ 22     $ (4
  PABs (1)     957       (944     13  

Foreign currency swaps:

  Foreign-denominated fixed maturity securities     1       (1       
  Foreign-denominated PABs (2)     (221     189       (32

Foreign currency forwards:

  Foreign-denominated fixed maturity securities                     
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 711     $ (734   $ (23
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012:

     

Interest rate swaps:

  Fixed maturity securities   $ (13   $ 10     $ (3
  PABs (1)     67       (54     13  

Foreign currency swaps:

  Foreign-denominated fixed maturity securities     (1     1         
  Foreign-denominated PABs (2)     (10     (7     (17

Foreign currency forwards:

  Foreign-denominated fixed maturity securities     11       (13     (2
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 54     $ (63   $ (9
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011:

     

Interest rate swaps:

  Fixed maturity securities   $ (31   $ 27     $ (4
  PABs (1)     1,000       (978     22  

Foreign currency swaps:

  Foreign-denominated fixed maturity securities                     
  Foreign-denominated PABs (2)     14       (53     (39

Foreign currency forwards:

  Foreign-denominated fixed maturity securities                     
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 983     $ (1,004   $ (21
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Fixed rate liabilities.

 

(2)

Fixed rate or floating rate liabilities.

 

53


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

For the Company’s foreign currency forwards, the change in the fair value of the derivative related to the changes in the difference between the spot price and the forward price is excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness. For all other derivatives, all components of each derivative’s gain or loss were included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness. For both the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, $3 million of the change in fair value of derivatives were excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness. For both the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, no component of the change in fair value of derivatives was excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness.

Cash Flow Hedges

The Company designates and accounts for the following as cash flow hedges when they have met the requirements of cash flow hedging: (i) interest rate swaps to convert floating rate investments to fixed rate investments; (ii) interest rate swaps to convert floating rate liabilities to fixed rate liabilities; (iii) foreign currency swaps to hedge the foreign currency cash flow exposure of foreign currency denominated investments and liabilities; (iv) interest rate forwards and credit forwards to lock in the price to be paid for forward purchases of investments; (v) interest rate swaps and interest rate forwards to hedge the forecasted purchases of fixed-rate investments; and (vi) interest rate swaps and interest rate forwards to hedge forecasted fixed-rate borrowings.

In certain instances, the Company discontinued cash flow hedge accounting because the forecasted transactions did not occur on the anticipated date, within two months of that date, or were no longer probable of occurring. The net amounts reclassified into net derivative gains (losses) related to such discontinued cash flow hedges were ($1) million and $3 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and ($1) million and ($15) million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

At both September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the maximum length of time over which the Company was hedging its exposure to variability in future cash flows for forecasted transactions did not exceed nine years.

The following table presents the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), before income tax, related to cash flow hedges:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (In millions)  

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), balance at beginning of period

   $ 1,832     $ (165   $ 1,514     $ (59

Gains (losses) deferred in other comprehensive income (loss) on the effective portion of cash flow hedges

     (324     1,630       (4     1,527  

Amounts reclassified to net derivative gains (losses)

     1       17       (3     9  

Amounts reclassified to net investment income

     (1     1       (1     2  

Amounts reclassified to other expenses

            3       2       7  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), balance at end of period

   $ 1,508     $ 1,486     $ 1,508     $ 1,486  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

At September 30, 2012, $11 million of deferred net gains (losses) on derivatives in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) was expected to be reclassified to earnings within the next 12 months.

 

54


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The following table presents the effects of derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships on the interim condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income and the interim condensed consolidated statements of equity:

 

Derivatives in Cash Flow

Hedging Relationships

  Amount of Gains
(Losses) Deferred in
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Income
(Loss) on Derivatives
    Amount and Location
of Gains (Losses)
Reclassified from
Accumulated Other Comprehensive
Income (Loss) into Income (Loss)
    Amount and Location
of Gains (Losses)
Recognized in Income (Loss)
on Derivatives
 
    (Effective Portion)     (Effective Portion)     (Ineffective Portion  and
Amount Excluded from
Effectiveness Testing)
 
          Net Derivative
Gains (Losses)
    Net  Investment
Income
    Other
Expenses
    Net Derivative
Gains (Losses)
 
    (In millions)  

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2012:

         

Interest rate swaps

  $ (93   $ 2     $ 2     $ 1     $   

Foreign currency swaps

    (215     (3     (1            (7

Interest rate forwards

    (16                   (1       

Credit forwards

                                  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ (324   $ (1   $ 1     $      $ (7
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2011:

         

Interest rate swaps

  $ 927     $ (42   $      $ (3   $ (1

Foreign currency swaps

    399       25       (2            5  

Interest rate forwards

    289       (1                   27  

Credit forwards

    15       1       1                
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 1,630     $ (17   $ (1   $ (3   $ 31  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012:

         

Interest rate swaps

  $ 105     $ 1     $ 3     $ (2   $   

Foreign currency swaps

    (105     2       (4     1       (6

Interest rate forwards

    (4            1       (1       

Credit forwards

                  1                
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ (4   $ 3     $ 1     $ (2   $ (6
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011:

         

Interest rate swaps

  $ 944     $ (41   $ 1     $ (7   $ 1  

Foreign currency swaps

    259       10       (5     1       3  

Interest rate forwards

    307       21       1       (1     16  

Credit forwards

    17       1       1                
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 1,527     $ (9   $ (2   $ (7   $ 20  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

All components of each derivative’s gain or loss were included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness.

Hedges of Net Investments in Foreign Operations

The Company uses foreign exchange contracts, which may include forwards and options, to hedge portions of its net investments in foreign operations against adverse movements in exchange rates. The Company measures ineffectiveness on these contracts based upon the change in forward rates. In addition, the Company may also use non-derivative financial instruments to hedge portions of its net investments in foreign operations against adverse movements in exchange rates. The Company measures ineffectiveness on non-derivative financial instruments based upon the change in spot rates.

 

55


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

When net investments in foreign operations are sold or substantially liquidated, the amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified to the consolidated statements of operations, while a pro rata portion will be reclassified upon partial sale of the net investments in foreign operations.

The following table presents the effects of derivatives and non-derivative financial instruments in net investment hedging relationships in the interim condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income and the interim condensed consolidated statements of equity:

 

Derivatives and Non-Derivative Hedging Instruments in Net
Investment Hedging Relationships (1), (2)

   Amount of Gains (Losses)
Deferred in Accumulated
Other  Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(Effective Portion)
 
     (In millions)  

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2012:

  

Foreign currency forwards

   $ (54

Foreign currency options

     (24

Non-derivative hedging instruments

       
  

 

 

 

Total

   $ (78
  

 

 

 

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2011:

  

Foreign currency forwards

   $ 185  

Foreign currency options

       

Non-derivative hedging instruments

       
  

 

 

 

Total

   $ 185  
  

 

 

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012:

  

Foreign currency forwards

   $ (64

Foreign currency options

     (48

Non-derivative hedging instruments

       
  

 

 

 

Total

   $ (112
  

 

 

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011:

  

Foreign currency forwards

   $ 72  

Foreign currency options

       

Non-derivative hedging instruments

     6  
  

 

 

 

Total

   $ 78  
  

 

 

 

 

(1)

During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, there were no sales or substantial liquidations of net investments in foreign operations that would have required the reclassification of gains or losses from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings during the periods presented. During the nine months ended September 30, 2011, the Company sold its interest in MSI MetLife, which was a hedged item in a net investment hedging relationship. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report.

 

(2)

There was no ineffectiveness recognized for the Company’s hedges of net investments in foreign operations. All components of each derivative and non-derivative hedging instrument’s gain or loss were included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness.

 

56


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the cumulative foreign currency translation gain (loss) recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to hedges of net investments in foreign operations was ($196) million and ($84) million, respectively.

Non-Qualifying Derivatives and Derivatives for Purposes Other Than Hedging

The Company enters into the following derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting or for purposes other than hedging: (i) interest rate swaps, implied volatility swaps, caps and floors and interest rate futures to economically hedge its exposure to interest rates; (ii) foreign currency forwards, swaps, option contracts and future contracts to economically hedge its exposure to adverse movements in exchange rates; (iii) credit default swaps to economically hedge exposure to adverse movements in credit; (iv) equity futures, equity index options, interest rate futures, TRRs and equity variance swaps to economically hedge liabilities embedded in certain variable annuity products; (v) interest rate forwards to buy and sell securities to economically hedge its exposure to interest rates; (vi) credit default swaps, TRRs and structured interest rate swaps to synthetically create investments; (vii) basis swaps to better match the cash flows of assets and related liabilities; (viii) credit default swaps held in relation to trading portfolios; (ix) swaptions to hedge interest rate risk; (x) inflation swaps to reduce risk generated from inflation-indexed liabilities; (xi) covered call options for income generation; (xii) interest rate lock commitments; (xiii) synthetic GICs; and (xiv) equity options to economically hedge certain invested assets against adverse changes in equity indices.

 

57


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The following tables present the amount and location of gains (losses) recognized in income for derivatives that were not designated or qualifying as hedging instruments:

 

     Net
Derivative
Gains (Losses)
    Net
Investment
Income (1)
    Policyholder
Benefits and
Claims (2)
    Other
Revenues (3)
 
     (In millions)  

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2012:

        

Interest rate swaps

   $ (182   $      $      $ 31  

Interest rate floors

     11                       

Interest rate caps

     (37                     

Interest rate futures

     40                     (1

Equity futures

     (196     7       (167       

Foreign currency swaps

     (118                     

Foreign currency forwards

     (32                     

Currency futures

     6                       

Currency options

     (1                     

Equity options

     (325     (5     (30       

Interest rate options

     (80                     

Interest rate forwards

     (3                     

Variance swaps

     (148            11         

Credit default swaps

     (12     (6              

TRRs

     (10                     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ (1,087   $ (4   $ (186   $ 30  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2011:

        

Interest rate swaps

   $ 1,805     $      $      $ 321  

Interest rate floors

     521                       

Interest rate caps

     (127                     

Interest rate futures

     43                     (5

Equity futures

     338       (12     314         

Foreign currency swaps

     272                       

Foreign currency forwards

     406                       

Currency futures

     28                       

Currency options

     (18                     

Equity options

     1,432       5                

Interest rate options

     962                     27  

Interest rate forwards

     (5                   (49

Variance swaps

     325                       

Credit default swaps

     163       15                

TRRs

     27              5         
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ 6,172     $ 8     $ 319     $ 294  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

58


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

     Net
Derivative
Gains (Losses)
    Net
Investment
Income (1)
    Policyholder
Benefits and
Claims (2)
    Other
Revenues (3)
 
     (In millions)  

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012:

        

Interest rate swaps

   $ 307     $      $      $ 112  

Interest rate floors

     50                       

Interest rate caps

     (99                     

Interest rate futures

     161                     (3

Equity futures

     (707     7       (373       

Foreign currency swaps

     (95                     

Foreign currency forwards

     (62                     

Currency futures

     (5                     

Currency options

     (5                     

Equity options

     (712     (13     (49       

Interest rate options

     33                       

Interest rate forwards

     15                     (74

Variance swaps

     (407            23         

Credit default swaps

     (132     (13              

TRRs

     1                       
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ (1,657   $ (19   $ (399   $ 35  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011:

        

Interest rate swaps

   $ 2,179     $ (2   $      $ 345  

Interest rate floors

     503                       

Interest rate caps

     (209                     

Interest rate futures

     (6     1              (9

Equity futures

     393       (9     206         

Foreign currency swaps

     80                       

Foreign currency forwards

     266       (9              

Currency futures

     37                       

Currency options

     (63                     

Equity options

     1,065       (6              

Interest rate options

     948                     24  

Interest rate forwards

     (5                   (88

Variance swaps

     234       (3              

Credit default swaps

     149       14                

TRRs

     26              5         
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ 5,597     $ (14   $ 211     $ 272  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Changes in estimated fair value related to economic hedges of equity method investments in joint ventures; changes in estimated fair value related to derivatives held in relation to trading portfolios; and changes in estimated fair value related to derivatives held within contractholder-directed unit-linked investments.

 

(2)

Changes in estimated fair value related to economic hedges of variable annuity guarantees included in future policy benefits.

 

(3)

Changes in estimated fair value related to derivatives held in connection with the Company’s mortgage banking activities.

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Credit Derivatives

In connection with synthetically created credit investment transactions and credit default swaps held in relation to the trading portfolio, the Company writes credit default swaps for which it receives a premium to insure credit risk. Such credit derivatives are included within the non-qualifying derivatives and derivatives for purposes other than hedging table. If a credit event occurs, as defined by the contract, the contract may be cash settled or it may be settled gross by the Company paying the counterparty the specified swap notional amount in exchange for the delivery of par quantities of the referenced credit obligation. The Company’s maximum amount at risk, assuming the value of all referenced credit obligations is zero, was $8.7 billion and $7.7 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The Company can terminate these contracts at any time through cash settlement with the counterparty at an amount equal to the then current fair value of the credit default swaps. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Company would have received $60 million and paid $41 million, respectively, to terminate all of these contracts.

The following table presents the estimated fair value, maximum amount of future payments and weighted average years to maturity of written credit default swaps at:

 

    September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  

Rating Agency Designation of Referenced

Credit Obligations (1)

  Estimated
Fair Value
of Credit
Default
Swaps
    Maximum
Amount of
Future
Payments under
Credit Default
Swaps (2)
    Weighted
Average
Years to
Maturity (3)
    Estimated
Fair Value
of Credit
Default
Swaps
    Maximum
Amount of
Future
Payments under
Credit Default
Swaps (2)
    Weighted
Average
Years to
Maturity (3)
 
    (In millions)           (In millions)        

Aaa/Aa/A

           

Single name credit default swaps (corporate)

  $ 10     $ 742       2.8     $ 5     $ 737       3.5  

Credit default swaps referencing indices

    39       2,813       2.3       (1     2,813       3.0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Subtotal

    49       3,555       2.4       4       3,550       3.1  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Baa

           

Single name credit default swaps (corporate)

    3       1,329       3.5       (17     1,234       4.0  

Credit default swaps referencing indices

    6       3,505       5.0       (26     2,847       4.9  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Subtotal

    9       4,834       4.6       (43     4,081       4.6  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Ba

           

Single name credit default swaps (corporate)

           25       2.9              25       3.5  

Credit default swaps referencing indices

                                         
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Subtotal

           25       2.9              25       3.5  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

B

           

Single name credit default swaps (corporate)

                                         

Credit default swaps referencing indices

    2       273       4.7       (2     25       4.8  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Subtotal

    2       273       4.7       (2     25       4.8  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total

  $ 60     $ 8,687       3.7     $ (41   $ 7,681       3.9  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

(1)

The rating agency designations are based on availability and the midpoint of the applicable ratings among Moody’s Investors Service (“Moody’s”), Standard & Poor’s Rating Services (“S&P”) and Fitch Ratings. If no rating is available from a rating agency, then an internally developed rating is used.

 

(2)

Assumes the value of the referenced credit obligations is zero.

 

(3)

The weighted average years to maturity of the credit default swaps is calculated based on weighted average notional amounts.

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The Company has also entered into credit default swaps to purchase credit protection on certain of the referenced credit obligations in the table above. As a result, the maximum amounts of potential future recoveries available to offset the $8.7 billion and $7.7 billion from the table above were $149 million and $115 million at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

Written credit default swaps held in relation to the trading portfolio amounted to $10 million in notional and $0 in fair value at September 30, 2012. Written credit default swaps held in relation to the trading portfolio amounted to $10 million in notional and ($1) million in fair value at December 31, 2011.

Credit Risk on Freestanding Derivatives

The Company may be exposed to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to derivative financial instruments. Generally, the current credit exposure of the Company’s derivative contracts is limited to the net positive estimated fair value of derivative contracts at the reporting date after taking into consideration the existence of netting agreements and any collateral received pursuant to credit support annexes.

The Company manages its credit risk related to OTC derivatives by entering into transactions with creditworthy counterparties, maintaining collateral arrangements and through the use of master agreements that provide for a single net payment to be made by one counterparty to another at each due date and upon termination. Because exchange-traded futures and options are effected through regulated exchanges, and positions are marked to market on a daily basis, the Company has minimal exposure to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to such derivative instruments. See Note 5 for a description of the impact of credit risk on the valuation of derivative instruments.

The Company enters into various collateral arrangements which require both the pledging and accepting of collateral in connection with its OTC derivative instruments. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Company was obligated to return cash collateral under its control of $8.6 billion and $9.5 billion, respectively. This cash collateral is included in cash and cash equivalents or in short-term investments and the obligation to return it is included in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions in the consolidated balance sheets. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Company had received collateral consisting of various securities with a fair market value of $3.3 billion and $2.5 billion, respectively, which were held in separate custodial accounts. Subject to certain constraints, the Company is permitted by contract to sell or repledge this collateral, but at September 30, 2012, none of the collateral had been sold or repledged.

The Company’s collateral arrangements for its OTC derivatives generally require the counterparty in a net liability position, after considering the effect of netting agreements, to pledge collateral when the fair value of that counterparty’s derivatives reaches a pre-determined threshold. Certain of these arrangements also include credit-contingent provisions that provide for a reduction of these thresholds (on a sliding scale that converges toward zero) in the event of downgrades in the credit ratings of the Company and/or the counterparty. In addition, certain of the Company’s netting agreements for derivative instruments contain provisions that require both the Company and the counterparty to maintain a specific investment grade credit rating from each of Moody’s and S&P. If a party’s credit ratings were to fall below that specific investment grade credit rating, that party would be in violation of these provisions, and the other party to the derivative instruments could terminate the transactions and demand immediate settlement and payment based on such party’s reasonable valuation of the derivative instruments.

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The following table presents the estimated fair value of the Company’s OTC derivatives that are in a net liability position after considering the effect of netting agreements, together with the estimated fair value and balance sheet location of the collateral pledged. The table also presents the incremental collateral that the Company would be required to provide if there was a one notch downgrade in the Company’s credit rating at the reporting date or if the Company’s credit rating sustained a downgrade to a level that triggered full overnight collateralization or termination of the derivative position at the reporting date. Derivatives that are not subject to collateral agreements are not included in the scope of this table.

 

    Estimated
Fair Value of
Derivatives in Net
Liability  Position (1)
    Estimated Fair Value of
Collateral Provided:
    Fair Value of Incremental
Collateral Provided Upon:
 
      Fixed Maturity
Securities (2)
    Cash (3)     One Notch
Downgrade
in the
Company’s
Credit
Rating
    Downgrade in the
Company’s Credit Rating
to a Level that Triggers
Full Overnight
Collateralization or
Termination of
the Derivative Position
 
    (In millions)  

September 30, 2012:

         

Derivatives subject to credit-contingent provisions

  $ 689     $ 600     $ 3     $ 54     $ 114  

Derivatives not subject to
credit-contingent provisions

                                  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 689     $ 600     $ 3     $ 54     $ 114  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

December 31, 2011:

         

Derivatives subject to credit-contingent provisions

  $ 447     $ 405     $ 4     $ 48     $ 104  

Derivatives not subject to credit-contingent provisions

    28       11       4                
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 475     $ 416     $ 8     $ 48     $ 104  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

After taking into consideration the existence of netting agreements.

 

(2)

Included in fixed maturity securities in the consolidated balance sheets. Subject to certain constraints, the counterparties are permitted by contract to sell or repledge this collateral.

 

(3)

Included in premiums, reinsurance and other receivables in the consolidated balance sheets.

Without considering the effect of netting agreements on the derivatives in the table above, the estimated fair value of the Company’s OTC derivatives with credit-contingent provisions that were in a gross liability position at September 30, 2012 was $1.0 billion. At September 30, 2012, the Company provided collateral of $603 million in connection with these derivatives. In the unlikely event that both: (i) the Company’s credit rating was downgraded to a level that triggers full overnight collateralization or termination of all derivative positions; and (ii) the Company’s netting agreements were deemed to be legally unenforceable, then the additional collateral that the Company would be required to provide to its counterparties in connection with its derivatives in a gross liability position at September 30, 2012 would be $437 million. This amount does not consider gross derivative assets of $351 million for which the Company has the contractual right of offset.

The Company also has exchange-traded futures and options, which require the pledging of collateral. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Company pledged securities collateral for exchange-traded futures and options of

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

$40 million and $42 million, respectively, which is included in fixed maturity securities. Subject to certain constraints, the counterparties are permitted by contract to sell or repledge this collateral. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Company provided cash collateral for exchange-traded futures and options of $556 million and $680 million, respectively, which is included in premiums, reinsurance and other receivables.

Embedded Derivatives

The Company issues certain products or purchases certain investments that contain embedded derivatives that are required to be separated from their host contracts and accounted for as freestanding derivatives. These host contracts principally include: variable annuities with guaranteed minimum benefits, including guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits (“GMWBs”), guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits (“GMABs”) and certain GMIBs; ceded reinsurance of guaranteed minimum benefits related to GMABs and certain GMIBs; assumed reinsurance of guaranteed minimum benefits related to GMWBs and GMABs; funding agreements with equity or bond indexed crediting rates; funds withheld on assumed and ceded reinsurance; and certain debt and equity securities.

The following table presents the estimated fair value of the Company’s embedded derivatives at:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts:

    

Ceded guaranteed minimum benefits

   $ 378     $ 327  

Funds withheld on assumed reinsurance

     50       35  

Options embedded in debt or equity securities

     (97     (70

Other

     1       1  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts

   $ 332     $ 293  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts:

    

Direct guaranteed minimum benefits

   $ 1,012     $ 2,104  

Assumed guaranteed minimum benefits

     3,180       2,340  

Funds withheld on ceded reinsurance

     158       122  

Other

     19       18  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts

   $ 4,369     $ 4,584  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The following table presents changes in estimated fair value related to embedded derivatives:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (In millions)  

Net derivative gains (losses) (1)

   $ 227     $ (2,308   $ 673      $ (1,759

Policyholder benefits and claims

   $ (4   $ 113     $ (9   $ 105  

 

 

(1)

The valuation of guaranteed minimum benefits includes a nonperformance risk adjustment. The amounts included in net derivative gains (losses), in connection with this adjustment, were ($534) million and ($1.2) billion for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $2.0 billion for both the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011.

5. Fair Value

Considerable judgment is often required in interpreting market data to develop estimates of fair value, and the use of different assumptions or valuation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts.

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Recurring Fair Value Measurements

The assets and liabilities measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis, including those items for which the Company has elected the FVO, were determined as described below. These estimated fair values and their corresponding placement in the fair value hierarchy are summarized as follows:

 

     September 30, 2012  
     Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using         
     Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
and Liabilities
(Level 1)
     Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
     Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
     Total
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
     (In millions)  

Assets:

           

Fixed maturity securities:

           

U.S. corporate securities

   $       $ 106,243      $ 7,699      $ 113,942  

Foreign corporate securities

             59,947        5,310        65,257  

Foreign government securities

             54,815        2,590        57,405  

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

     28,672        22,702        74        51,448  

RMBS

     1,009        37,009        2,573        40,591  

CMBS

             18,226        1,214        19,440  

ABS

             12,155        2,850        15,005  

State and political subdivision securities

             14,852        65        14,917  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

     29,681        325,949        22,375        378,005  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Equity securities:

           

Common stock

     860        947        262        2,069  

Non-redeemable preferred stock

             308        426        734  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total equity securities

     860        1,255        688        2,803  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Trading and other securities:

           

Actively Traded Securities

     3        548        14        565  

FVO general account securities

             147        31        178  

FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments

     8,565        5,513        1,121        15,199  

FVO securities held by CSEs

             53                53  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total trading and other securities

     8,568        6,261        1,166        15,995  

Short-term investments (1)

     7,108        5,590        1,097        13,795  

Mortgage loans:

           

Commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs

             2,879                2,879  

Mortgage loans held-for-sale (2), (3)

                     64        64  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans

             2,879        64        2,943  

Other invested assets:

           

Mortgage Servicing Rights (“MSRs”)

                     490        490  

Other investments

     269        127                396  

Derivative assets: (4)

           

Interest rate

     10        11,106        244        11,360  

Foreign currency exchange rate

             864        62        926  

Credit

             59        41        100  

Equity market

     65        2,714        563        3,342  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total derivative assets

     75        14,743        910        15,728  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other invested assets

     344        14,870        1,400        16,614  

Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts (5)

             1        428        429  

Separate account assets (6)

     34,037        201,929        1,407        237,373  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ 80,598      $ 558,734      $ 28,625      $ 667,957  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities:

           

Derivative liabilities: (4)

           

Interest rate

   $ 20      $ 2,730      $ 27      $ 2,777  

Foreign currency exchange rate

             1,297        4        1,301  

Credit

             40        1        41  

Equity market

     2        352        238        592  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total derivative liabilities

     22        4,419        270        4,711  

Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts (5)

             19        4,350        4,369  

Long-term debt of CSEs

             2,685        48        2,733  

Liability related to securitized reverse residential mortgage loans (3), (7)

                               

Trading liabilities (7)

     118        3                121  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total liabilities

   $ 140      $ 7,126      $ 4,668      $ 11,934  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

64


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    December 31, 2011  
    Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using     Total
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
    Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
and Liabilities
(Level 1)
    Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
    Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
   
    (In millions)  

Assets:

       

Fixed maturity securities:

       

U.S. corporate securities

  $      $ 99,001     $ 6,784     $ 105,785  

Foreign corporate securities

           59,648       4,370       64,018  

Foreign government securities

    76       50,138       2,322       52,536  

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

    19,911       20,070       31       40,012  

RMBS

           41,035       1,602       42,637  

CMBS

           18,316       753       19,069  

ABS

           11,129       1,850       12,979  

State and political subdivision securities

           13,182       53       13,235  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

    19,987       312,519       17,765       350,271  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Equity securities:

       

Common stock

    819       1,105       281       2,205  

Non-redeemable preferred stock

           380       438       818  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total equity securities

    819       1,485       719       3,023  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Trading and other securities:

       

Actively Traded Securities

           473              473  

FVO general account securities

           244       23       267  

FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments

    7,572       8,453       1,386       17,411  

FVO securities held by CSEs

           117              117  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total trading and other securities

    7,572       9,287       1,409       18,268  

Short-term investments (1)

    8,150       8,120       590       16,860  

Mortgage loans:

       

Commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs

           3,138              3,138  

Mortgage loans held-for-sale (2)

           9,302       1,414       10,716  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans

           12,440       1,414       13,854  

Other invested assets:

       

MSRs

                  666       666  

Other investments

    312       124              436  

Derivative assets: (4)

       

Interest rate

    32       10,426       338       10,796  

Foreign currency exchange rate

    1       1,316       61       1,378  

Credit

           301       29       330  

Equity market

    29       2,703       964       3,696  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total derivative assets

    62       14,746       1,392       16,200  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other invested assets

    374       14,870       2,058       17,302  

Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts (5)

           1       362       363  

Separate account assets (6)

    28,191       173,507       1,325       203,023  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

  $ 65,093     $ 532,229     $ 25,642     $ 622,964  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities:

       

Derivative liabilities: (4)

       

Interest rate

  $ 91     $ 2,351     $ 38     $ 2,480  

Foreign currency exchange rate

           1,103       17       1,120  

Credit

           85       28       113  

Equity market

    12       211       75       298  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total derivative liabilities

    103       3,750       158       4,011  

Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts (5)

           19       4,565       4,584  

Long-term debt of CSEs

           2,952       116       3,068  

Liability related to securitized reverse residential mortgage loans (7)

           6,451       1,175       7,626  

Trading liabilities (7)

    124       3              127  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

  $ 227     $ 13,175     $ 6,014     $ 19,416  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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(1)

Short-term investments as presented in the tables above differ from the amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheets because certain short-term investments are not measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis.

 

(2)

Mortgage loans held-for-sale are comprised of securitized reverse residential mortgage loans and other mortgage loans held-for-sale. The amounts in the preceding tables differ from the amount presented in the consolidated balance sheets as these tables do not include mortgage loans that are stated at lower of amortized cost or estimated fair value.

 

(3)

As described in Note 2, the Company is exiting the businesses of originating forward and reverse residential mortgage loans, intends to dispose of the depository business of MetLife Bank and has sold MetLife Bank’s reverse mortgage servicing rights resulting in the disposition of certain mortgage loans and the de-recognition of its securitized reverse residential mortgage loans and corresponding liabilities presented in the table above and in the related fair value disclosures.

 

(4)

Derivative liabilities are presented within other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. The amounts are presented gross in the tables above to reflect the presentation in the consolidated balance sheets, but are presented net for purposes of the rollforward in the Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) tables.

 

(5)

Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts are presented primarily within premiums, reinsurance and other receivables in the consolidated balance sheets. Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts are presented primarily within PABs in the consolidated balance sheets. At September 30, 2012, fixed maturity securities and equity securities also included embedded derivatives of $0 and ($97) million, respectively. At December 31, 2011, fixed maturity securities and equity securities included embedded derivatives of $2 million and ($72) million, respectively.

 

(6)

Separate account assets are measured at estimated fair value. Investment performance related to separate account assets is fully offset by corresponding amounts credited to contractholders whose liability is reflected within separate account liabilities. Separate account liabilities are set equal to the estimated fair value of separate account assets.

 

(7)

The liability related to securitized reverse residential mortgage loans and trading liabilities are presented within other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.

Investments

On behalf of the Company’s chief investment officer and chief financial officer, a pricing and valuation committee that is independent of the trading and investing functions and comprised of senior management, provides oversight of control systems and valuation policies for securities, mortgage loans and derivatives. On a monthly basis, this committee reviews and approves new transaction types and markets, ensures that observable market prices and market-based parameters are used for valuation, wherever possible, determines that judgmental valuation adjustments, when applied, are based upon established policies and are applied consistently over time and provides oversight of the selection of independent third party pricing providers and the controls and procedures to evaluate third party pricing. Periodically, the chief accounting officer reports to the Audit Committee of MetLife, Inc.’s Board of Directors regarding compliance with fair value accounting standards.

The Company reviews its valuation methodologies on an ongoing basis and revises those methodologies when necessary based on changing market conditions. Assurance is gained on the overall reasonableness and consistent

 

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application of input assumptions, valuation methodologies and compliance with fair value accounting standards through controls designed to ensure valuations represent an exit price. Several controls are utilized, including certain monthly controls, which include, but are not limited to, analysis of portfolio returns to corresponding benchmark returns, comparing a sample of executed prices of securities sold to the fair value estimates, comparing fair value estimates to management’s knowledge of the current market, reviewing the bid/ask spreads to assess activity, comparing prices from multiple independent pricing services and ongoing due diligence to confirm that independent pricing services use market-based parameters. The process includes a determination of the observability of inputs used in estimated fair values received from independent pricing services or brokers by assessing whether these inputs can be corroborated by observable market data. The Company ensures that prices received from independent brokers, also referred to herein as “consensus pricing,” represent a reasonable estimate of fair value by reviewing such pricing with the Company’s knowledge of the current market dynamics and current pricing for similar financial instruments. While independent non-binding broker quotations are utilized, they are not used for a significant portion of the portfolio. For example, fixed maturity securities priced using independent non-binding broker quotations represent less than 0.6% of the total estimated fair value of fixed maturity securities and represent only 9% of the total estimated fair value of Level 3 fixed maturity securities.

The Company also applies a formal process to challenge any prices received from independent pricing services that are not considered representative of estimated fair value. If prices received from independent pricing services are not considered reflective of market activity or representative of estimated fair value, independent non-binding broker quotations are obtained, or an internally developed valuation is prepared. Internally developed valuations of current estimated fair value, which reflect internal estimates of liquidity and nonperformance risks, compared with pricing received from the independent pricing services, did not produce material differences in the estimated fair values for the majority of the portfolio; accordingly, overrides were not material. This is, in part, because internal estimates of liquidity and nonperformance risks are generally based on available market evidence and estimates used by other market participants. In the absence of such market-based evidence, management’s best estimate is used.

Securities, Short-term Investments, Other Investments, Long-term Debt of CSEs and Trading Liabilities

When available, the estimated fair value of fixed maturity securities, equity securities, trading and other securities and short-term investments are based on quoted prices in active markets that are readily and regularly obtainable. Generally, these are the most liquid of the Company’s securities holdings and valuation of these securities does not involve management’s judgment.

When quoted prices in active markets are not available, the determination of estimated fair value is based on market standard valuation methodologies, giving priority to observable inputs. The significant inputs to the market standard valuation methodologies for certain types of securities with reasonable levels of price transparency are inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. When observable inputs are not available, the market standard valuation methodologies for determining the estimated fair value of certain types of securities that trade infrequently, and therefore have little or no price transparency, rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. These unobservable inputs can be based in large part on management’s judgment or estimation and cannot be supported by reference to market activity. Even though these inputs are unobservable, management believes they are consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such securities and are considered appropriate given the circumstances.

The estimated fair value of FVO securities held by CSEs, other investments, long-term debt of CSEs and trading liabilities is determined on a basis consistent with the methodologies described herein for securities.

 

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Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The Company consolidates certain securitization entities that hold securities that have been accounted for under the FVO and classified within trading and other securities.

The use of different methodologies, assumptions and inputs may have a material effect on the estimated fair values of the Company’s securities holdings.

Level 2 Measurements:

This level includes fixed maturity securities and equity securities priced principally by independent pricing services using observable inputs. Trading and other securities, short-term investments and other investments within this level are of a similar nature and class to the Level 2 fixed maturity securities and equity securities described below. Contractholder-directed unit-linked investments reported within trading and other securities include mutual fund interests without readily determinable fair values given prices are not published publicly. Valuation of these mutual funds is based upon quoted prices or reported net asset values (“NAVs”) provided by the fund managers, which were based on observable inputs.

U.S. corporate and foreign corporate securities

These securities are principally valued using the market and income approaches. Valuations are based primarily on quoted prices in markets that are not active, or using matrix pricing or other similar techniques that use standard market observable inputs such as benchmark yields, spreads off benchmark yields, new issuances, issuer rating, duration, and trades of identical or comparable securities. Investment grade privately placed securities are valued using discounted cash flow (“DCF”) methodologies using standard market observable inputs, and inputs derived from, or corroborated by, market observable data including market yield curve, duration, call provisions, observable prices and spreads for similar publicly traded or privately traded issues that incorporate the credit quality and industry sector of the issuer. This level also includes certain below investment grade privately placed fixed maturity securities priced by independent pricing services that use observable inputs.

Foreign government and state and political subdivision securities

These securities are principally valued using the market approach. Valuation is based primarily on matrix pricing or other similar techniques using standard market observable inputs including benchmark U.S. Treasury yield or other yields, issuer ratings, broker-dealer quotes, issuer spreads and reported trades of similar securities, including those within the same sub-sector or with a similar maturity or credit rating.

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

These securities are principally valued using the market approach. Valuation is based primarily on quoted prices in markets that are not active or using matrix pricing or other similar techniques using standard market observable inputs such as benchmark U.S. Treasury yield curve, the spread off the U.S. Treasury yield curve for the identical security and comparable securities that are actively traded.

Structured securities comprised of RMBS, CMBS and ABS

These securities are principally valued using the market approach and income approach. Valuation is based primarily on matrix pricing, DCF methodologies or other similar techniques using standard market inputs including spreads for actively traded securities, spreads off benchmark yields, expected prepayment speeds and volumes, current and forecasted loss severity, rating, weighted average coupon, weighted average maturity, average delinquency rates, geographic region, debt-service coverage ratios and issuance-

 

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specific information including, but not limited to: collateral type, payment terms of the underlying assets, payment priority within the tranche, structure of the security, deal performance and vintage of loans.

Common and non-redeemable preferred stock

These securities are principally valued using the market approach where market quotes are available but are not considered actively traded. Valuation is based principally on observable inputs including quoted prices in markets that are not considered active.

Level 3 Measurements:

In general, fixed maturity securities and equity securities classified within Level 3 use many of the same valuation techniques and inputs as described in Level 2 Measurements. However, if key inputs are unobservable, or if the investments are less liquid and there is very limited trading activity, the investments are generally classified as Level 3. The use of independent non-binding broker quotations to value investments generally indicates there is a lack of liquidity or a lack of transparency in the process to develop the valuation estimates generally causing these investments to be classified in Level 3.

Trading and other securities and short-term investments within this level are of a similar nature and class to the Level 3 securities described below; accordingly, the valuation techniques and significant market standard observable inputs used in their valuation are also similar to those described below.

U.S. corporate and foreign corporate securities

These securities, including financial services industry hybrid securities classified within fixed maturity securities, are principally valued using the market approach. Valuations are based primarily on matrix pricing or other similar techniques that utilize unobservable inputs or inputs that cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data, including illiquidity premium, delta spread adjustments or spreads over below investment grade curves to reflect industry trends or specific credit-related issues; and inputs including quoted prices for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2. Certain valuations are based on independent non-binding broker quotations.

Foreign government and state and political subdivision securities

These securities are principally valued using the market approach. Valuation is based primarily on independent non-binding broker quotations and inputs including quoted prices for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2.

Structured securities comprised of RMBS, CMBS and ABS

These securities are principally valued using the market approach and income approach. Valuation is based primarily on matrix pricing, DCF methodologies or other similar techniques that utilize inputs that are unobservable or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data including spreads over below investment grade curves to reflect industry trends on specific credit-related issues. Below investment grade securities, alternative residential mortgage loan RMBS and RMBS supported by sub-prime mortgage loans included in this level are valued based on inputs including quoted prices for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2. Certain of these valuations are based on independent non-binding broker quotations.

Common and non-redeemable preferred stock

These securities, including privately held securities and financial services industry hybrid securities classified within equity securities, are principally valued using the market and income approaches.

 

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Valuations are based primarily on matrix pricing, DCF methodologies or other similar techniques using inputs such as comparable credit rating and issuance structure. Certain of these securities are valued based on inputs including quoted prices for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2 and independent non-binding broker quotations.

Mortgage Loans, MSRs and Liability Related to Securitized Reverse Residential Mortgage Loans

The Company has elected the FVO for commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs, residential mortgage loans held-for-sale, securitized reverse residential mortgage loans, MSRs and the liability related to securitized reverse residential mortgage loans. Although MSRs are not financial instruments, the Company has included them in the preceding table as a result of its election to carry them at estimated fair value.

Level 2 Measurements:

Commercial Mortgage Loans Held by CSEs

These investments are principally valued using the market approach. The principal market for these investments is the securitization market. The Company uses the quoted securitization market price of the obligations of the CSEs to determine the estimated fair value of these commercial loan portfolios. These market prices are determined principally by independent pricing services using observable inputs.

Mortgage Loans Held-For-Sale

Residential mortgage loans held-for-sale are principally valued using the market approach. For securitized reverse residential mortgage loans, valuation is based primarily on readily available observable pricing for securities backed by similar fixed-rate loans. For other residential mortgage loans held-for-sale, valuation is based primarily on readily available observable pricing for securities backed by similar loans. The unobservable adjustments to such prices are insignificant.

Liability Related to Securitized Reverse Residential Mortgage Loans

The estimated fair value of this liability is based on quoted prices when traded as assets in active markets or, if not available, based on market standard valuation methodologies consistent with the Company’s methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of comparable financial instruments.

Level 3 Measurements:

Mortgage Loans Held-for-Sale

For both securitized reverse residential mortgage loans held-for-sale and other residential mortgage loans held-for-sale, for which pricing for securities backed by similar adjustable-rate loans is not observable, the estimated fair value is determined using unobservable independent broker quotations or valuation models using significant unobservable inputs.

MSRs

MSRs, which are valued using an income approach, are carried at estimated fair value and have multiple significant unobservable inputs including assumptions regarding estimates of discount rates, loan prepayments and servicing costs. Sales of MSRs tend to occur in private transactions where the precise terms and conditions of the sales are typically not readily available and observable market

 

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valuations are limited. As such, the Company relies primarily on a DCF model to estimate the fair value of the MSRs. The model requires inputs such as type of loan (fixed vs. variable and agency vs. other), age of loan, loan interest rates and current market interest rates that are generally observable. The model also requires the use of unobservable inputs including assumptions regarding estimates of discount rates, loan prepayments and servicing costs.

Liability Related to Securitized Reverse Residential Mortgage Loans

The estimated fair value of this liability is based on quoted prices when traded as assets in less active markets or, if not available, based on market standard valuation methodologies using unobservable inputs, consistent with the Company’s methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of comparable financial instruments.

Separate Account Assets

Separate account assets are carried at estimated fair value and reported as a summarized total on the consolidated balance sheets. The estimated fair value of separate account assets is based on the estimated fair value of the underlying assets. Assets within the Company’s separate accounts include: mutual funds, fixed maturity securities, equity securities, derivatives, hedge funds, other limited partnership interests, short-term investments and cash and cash equivalents.

Level 2 Measurements:

These assets are comprised of investments that are similar in nature to the instruments described under “— Securities, Short-term Investments, Other Investments, Long-term Debt of CSEs and Trading Liabilities” and “— Freestanding Derivatives.” Also included are certain mutual funds and hedge funds without readily determinable fair values given prices are not published publicly. Valuation of the mutual funds and hedge funds is based upon quoted prices or reported NAVs provided by the fund managers.

Level 3 Measurements:

These assets are comprised of investments that are similar in nature to the instruments described under “— Securities, Short-term Investments, Other Investments, Long-term Debt of CSEs and Trading Liabilities” and “— Freestanding Derivatives.” Separate account assets within this level also include other limited partnership interests. Other limited partnership interests are valued giving consideration to the value of the underlying holdings of the partnerships and by applying a premium or discount, if appropriate, for factors such as liquidity, bid/ask spreads, the performance record of the fund manager or other relevant variables which may impact the exit value of the particular partnership interest.

Derivatives

The estimated fair value of derivatives is determined through the use of quoted market prices for exchange-traded derivatives and interest rate forwards to sell certain to be announced securities, or through the use of pricing models for OTC derivatives. The determination of estimated fair value, when quoted market values are not available, is based on market standard valuation methodologies and inputs that management believes are consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such instruments. Derivative valuations can be affected by changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, financial indices, credit spreads, default risk, nonperformance risk, volatility, liquidity and changes in estimates and assumptions used in the pricing models. The valuation process for derivatives is described above in “— Investments.”

The significant inputs to the pricing models for most OTC derivatives are inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. Significant inputs that are

 

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Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

observable generally include: interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, interest rate curves, credit curves and volatility. However, certain OTC derivatives may rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. Significant inputs that are unobservable generally include references to emerging market currencies and inputs that are outside the observable portion of the interest rate curve, credit curve, volatility or other relevant market measure. These unobservable inputs may involve significant management judgment or estimation. Even though unobservable, these inputs are based on assumptions deemed appropriate given the circumstances and management believes they are consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such instruments.

The credit risk of both the counterparty and the Company are considered in determining the estimated fair value for all OTC derivatives, and any potential credit adjustment is based on the net exposure by counterparty after taking into account the effects of netting agreements and collateral arrangements. The Company values its derivative positions using the standard swap curve which includes a spread to the risk free rate. This credit spread is appropriate for those parties that execute trades at pricing levels consistent with the standard swap curve. As the Company and its significant derivative counterparties consistently execute trades at such pricing levels, additional credit risk adjustments are not currently required in the valuation process. The Company’s ability to consistently execute at such pricing levels is in part due to the netting agreements and collateral arrangements that are in place with all of its significant derivative counterparties. An evaluation of the requirement to make additional credit risk adjustments is performed by the Company each reporting period.

Most inputs for OTC derivatives are mid-market inputs but, in certain cases, bid level inputs are used when they are deemed more representative of exit value. Market liquidity, as well as the use of different methodologies, assumptions and inputs, may have a material effect on the estimated fair values of the Company’s derivatives and could materially affect net income.

Freestanding Derivatives

Level 2 Measurements:

This level includes all types of derivative instruments utilized by the Company with the exception of exchange-traded derivatives and interest rate forwards to sell certain to-be-announced securities included within Level 1 and those derivative instruments with unobservable inputs as described in Level 3. These derivatives are principally valued using the income approach.

Interest rate

Non-option-based. — Valuations are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve and LIBOR basis curves.

Option-based. — Valuations are based on option pricing models, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves and interest rate volatility.

Foreign currency exchange rate

Non-option-based. — Valuations are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves, currency spot rates and cross currency basis curves.

Option-based. — Valuations are based on option pricing models, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves, currency spot rates, cross currency basis curves and currency volatility.

 

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Credit

Non-option-based. — Valuations are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, credit curves and recovery rates.

Equity market

Non-option-based. — Valuations are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, spot equity index levels and dividend yield curves.

Option-based. — Valuations are based on option pricing models, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, spot equity index levels, dividend yield curves and equity volatility.

Level 3 Measurements:

These derivatives are principally valued using the income approach. Valuations of non-option-based derivatives utilize present value techniques, whereas valuations of option-based derivatives utilize option pricing models. These valuation methodologies generally use the same inputs as described in the corresponding sections above for Level 2 measurements of derivatives. However, these derivatives result in Level 3 classification because one or more of the significant inputs are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data.

Interest rate

Non-option-based. — Significant unobservable inputs may include pull through rates on interest rate lock commitments and the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve and LIBOR basis curves.

Option-based. — Significant unobservable inputs may include the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves and interest rate volatility.

Foreign currency exchange rate

Non-option-based. — Significant unobservable inputs may include the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves, cross currency basis curves and currency correlation.

Option-based. — Significant unobservable inputs may include currency correlation and the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves, cross currency basis curves and currency volatility.

Credit

Non-option-based. — Significant unobservable inputs may include credit spreads, repurchase rates and the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve and credit curves. Certain of these derivatives are valued based on independent non-binding broker quotations.

Equity market

Non-option-based. — Significant unobservable inputs may include the extrapolation beyond observable limits of dividend yield curves and equity volatility.

 

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Option-based. — Significant unobservable inputs may include the extrapolation beyond observable limits of dividend yield curves, equity volatility and unobservable correlation between model inputs.

Embedded Derivatives

Embedded derivatives principally include certain direct, assumed and ceded variable annuity guarantees and equity or bond indexed crediting rates within certain funding agreements. Embedded derivatives are recorded at estimated fair value with changes in estimated fair value reported in net income.

The Company issues and assumes certain variable annuity products with guaranteed minimum benefits. GMWBs, GMABs and certain GMIBs are embedded derivatives, which are measured at estimated fair value separately from the host variable annuity contract, with changes in estimated fair value reported in net derivative gains (losses). These embedded derivatives are classified within PABs in the consolidated balance sheets.

The fair value of these embedded derivatives, estimated as the present value of projected future benefits minus the present value of projected future fees using actuarial and capital market assumptions including expectations concerning policyholder behavior, is calculated by the Company’s actuarial department. The calculation is based on in-force business, and is performed using standard actuarial valuation software which projects future cash flows from the embedded derivative over multiple risk neutral stochastic scenarios using observable risk free rates.

Capital market assumptions, such as risk free rates and implied volatilities, are based on market prices for publicly traded instruments to the extent that prices for such instruments are observable. Implied volatilities beyond the observable period are extrapolated based on observable implied volatilities and historical volatilities. Actuarial assumptions, including mortality, lapse, withdrawal and utilization, are unobservable and are reviewed at least annually based on actuarial studies of historical experience.

The valuation of these guarantee liabilities includes nonperformance risk adjustments and adjustments for a risk margin related to non-capital market inputs. The nonperformance adjustment is determined by taking into consideration publicly available information relating to spreads in the secondary market for MetLife, Inc.’s debt, including related credit default swaps. These observable spreads are then adjusted, as necessary, to reflect the priority of these liabilities and the claims paying ability of the issuing insurance subsidiaries compared to MetLife, Inc.

Risk margins are established to capture the non-capital market risks of the instrument which represent the additional compensation a market participant would require to assume the risks related to the uncertainties of such actuarial assumptions as annuitization, premium persistency, partial withdrawal and surrenders. The establishment of risk margins requires the use of significant management judgment, including assumptions of the amount and cost of capital needed to cover the guarantees. These guarantees may be more costly than expected in volatile or declining equity markets. Market conditions including, but not limited to, changes in interest rates, equity indices, market volatility and foreign currency exchange rates; changes in nonperformance risk; and variations in actuarial assumptions regarding policyholder behavior, mortality and risk margins related to non-capital market inputs, may result in significant fluctuations in the estimated fair value of the guarantees that could materially affect net income.

The Company ceded the risk associated with certain of the GMIBs and GMABs previously described. These reinsurance agreements contain embedded derivatives which are included within premiums, reinsurance and other receivables in the consolidated balance sheets with changes in estimated fair value reported in net derivative gains (losses) or policyholder benefits and claims depending on the statement of operations classification of the direct risk. The value of the embedded derivatives on the ceded risk is determined using a

 

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methodology consistent with that described previously for the guarantees directly written by the Company with the exception of the input for nonperformance risk that reflects the credit of the reinsurer.

The estimated fair value of the embedded derivatives within funds withheld related to certain ceded reinsurance is determined based on the change in estimated fair value of the underlying assets held by the Company in a reference portfolio backing the funds withheld liability. The estimated fair value of the underlying assets is determined as previously described in “— Securities, Short-term Investments, Other Investments, Long-term Debt of CSEs and Trading Liabilities.” The estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives is included, along with their funds withheld hosts, in other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets with changes in estimated fair value recorded in net derivative gains (losses). Changes in the credit spreads on the underlying assets, interest rates and market volatility may result in significant fluctuations in the estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives that could materially affect net income.

The estimated fair value of the embedded equity and bond indexed derivatives contained in certain funding agreements is determined using market standard swap valuation models and observable market inputs, including a nonperformance risk adjustment. The estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives are included, along with their funding agreements host, within PABs with changes in estimated fair value recorded in net derivative gains (losses). Changes in equity and bond indices, interest rates and the Company’s credit standing may result in significant fluctuations in the estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives that could materially affect net income.

Embedded Derivatives Within Asset and Liability Host Contracts

Level 3 Measurements:

Direct and Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefits

These embedded derivatives are principally valued using the income approach. Valuations are based on option pricing techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include swap yield curve, currency exchange rates and implied volatilities. These embedded derivatives result in Level 3 classification because one or more of the significant inputs are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. Significant unobservable inputs generally include: the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve and implied volatilities, actuarial assumptions for policyholder behavior and mortality and the potential variability in policyholder behavior and mortality, nonperformance risk and cost of capital for purposes of calculating the risk margin.

Reinsurance Ceded on Certain Guaranteed Minimum Benefits

These embedded derivatives are principally valued using the income approach. The valuation techniques and significant market standard unobservable inputs used in their valuation are similar to those described above in “— Direct and Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefits” and also include counterparty credit spreads.

Transfers between Levels:

Overall, transfers between levels occur when there are changes in the observability of inputs and market activity. Transfers into or out of any level are assumed to occur at the beginning of the period.

 

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Transfers between Levels 1 and 2:

For assets and liabilities measured at estimated fair value and still held at September 30, 2012, transfers from Level 1 to Level 2 and from Level 2 to Level 1 were $11 million and $0, respectively. Transfers were comprised of fixed maturity securities. Transfers between Levels 1 and 2 for assets and liabilities measured at estimated fair value and still held at December 31, 2011 were not significant.

Transfers into or out of Level 3:

Transfers into or out of Level 3 are presented in the tables which follow. Assets and liabilities are transferred into Level 3 when a significant input cannot be corroborated with market observable data. This occurs when market activity decreases significantly and underlying inputs cannot be observed, current prices are not available, and/or when there are significant variances in quoted prices, thereby affecting transparency. Assets and liabilities are transferred out of Level 3 when circumstances change such that a significant input can be corroborated with market observable data. This may be due to a significant increase in market activity, a specific event, or one or more significant input(s) becoming observable.

Transfers into Level 3 for fixed maturity securities and separate account assets were due primarily to a lack of trading activity, decreased liquidity and credit ratings downgrades (e.g., from investment grade to below investment grade) which have resulted in decreased transparency of valuations and an increased use of independent non-binding broker quotations and unobservable inputs to determine estimated fair value.

Transfers out of Level 3 for fixed maturity securities and separate account assets resulted primarily from increased transparency of both new issuances that subsequent to issuance and establishment of trading activity, became priced by independent pricing services and existing issuances that, over time, the Company was able to obtain pricing from, or corroborate pricing received from, independent pricing services with observable inputs or increases in market activity and upgraded credit ratings. With respect to derivatives, transfers out of Level 3 resulted primarily from increased transparency related to the observable portion of the swap yield curve or the observable portion of the equity volatility surface.

 

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Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)

The following table presents certain quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement for the more significant asset and liability classes measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3).

 

   

Valuation
Techniques

 

Significant Unobservable Inputs

  Range     Weighted
Average
 

Fixed maturity securities:

           

U.S. corporate and foreign corporate securities

  • Matrix pricing   • Delta spread adjustments (1)     (100            512       91   
    • Illiquidity premium (1)     30              30    
    • Spreads from below investment grade curves (1)     (179            879       231   
    • Offered quotes (2)                   255    
  • Market pricing   • Quoted prices (2)     (1,411            826       141   
  • Consensus pricing   • Offered quotes (2)                   600    
 

 

 

Foreign government securities

  • Matrix pricing   • Spreads from below investment grade curves (1)     (69            150       64   
  • Market pricing   • Quoted prices (2)              143       100   
  • Consensus pricing   • Offered quotes (2)     82              189    
 

 

 

RMBS

  • Matrix pricing and DCF   • Spreads from below investment grade curves (1)                   4,537       470   
  • Market pricing   • Quoted prices (2)     13              109       104   
  • Consensus pricing   • Offered quotes (2)     45              100    
 

 

 

CMBS

  • Matrix pricing and DCF   • Spreads from below investment grade curves (1)                   9,069       366   
  • Market pricing   • Quoted prices (2)     11              106       98   
 

 

 

ABS

  • Matrix pricing and DCF   • Spreads from below investment grade curves (1)                   1,830       131   
  • Market pricing   • Quoted prices (2)     40              102       100   
  • Consensus pricing   • Offered quotes (2)                   111    
 

 

 

Derivatives:

           

Interest rate

  • Present value techniques   •Swap yield (1)     227              352    
 

 

 

Foreign currency exchange rate

  • Present value techniques   • Swap yield (1)     194              231    
    • Currency correlation     41            57  
 

 

 

Credit

  • Present value techniques   •Credit spreads (1)                   100    
  • Consensus pricing   •Offered quotes (3)        
 

 

 

Equity market

  • Present value techniques   • Volatility     13            34  
    or option pricing models   • Correlation     65            65  
 

 

 

Embedded derivatives:

           

Direct and assumed guaranteed minimum benefits

  • Option pricing techniques   • Mortality rates:        
          Ages 0 - 40     0            0.13  
          Ages 41 - 60     0.05            0.88  
          Ages 61 – 115     0.26            100  
    • Lapse rates:        
          Durations 1 - 10     0.50            100  
          Durations 11 - 20     2.00            100  
          Durations 21 - 116     1.25            100  
    • Utilization rates (4)     20            50  
    • Withdrawal rates     0.07            20  
    • Long-term equity volatilities     15.18            40  
    • Nonperformance risk spread     0.15            2.05  
 

 

 

 

 

(1)

For this unobservable input, range and weighted average are presented in basis points.

 

(2)

For this unobservable input, range and weighted average are presented in accordance with the market convention for fixed maturity securities of dollars per hundred dollars of par.

 

(3)

At September 30, 2012, independent non-binding broker quotations were used in the determination of less than 1% of the total net derivative estimated fair value.

 

(4)

This range is attributable to certain GMIB and lifetime withdrawal benefits.

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The following is a summary of the valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement for other types of financial instruments classified within Level 3. These financial instruments are subject to the controls described under “— Investments.” Generally, all other classes of securities including those within separate account assets use the same valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs as previously described for Level 3 fixed maturity securities. This includes matrix pricing and DCF methodologies, inputs such as quoted prices for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2, as well as independent non-binding broker quotations. Mortgage loans held-for-sale are valued using independent non-binding broker quotations and internal models such as DCF methodologies using current interest rates. MSRs are valued using DCF methodologies using inputs such as discount rates, loan prepayments and servicing costs. The long-term debt of CSEs is valued using independent non-binding broker quotations and internal models including matrix pricing and DCF methodologies using current interest rates. The liability related to securitized reverse residential mortgage loans is valued using quoted prices. The sensitivity of the estimated fair value to changes in the significant unobservable inputs for these other types of financial instruments is similar in nature to that described below.

A description of the sensitivity of the estimated fair value to changes in the significant unobservable inputs for certain of the major asset and liability classes described above is as follows:

U.S. corporate and foreign corporate securities

Significant spread widening in isolation will adversely impact the overall valuation, while significant spread tightening will lead to substantial valuation increases. Significant increases (decreases) in illiquidity premiums in isolation would result in substantially lower (higher) valuations. Significant increases (decreases) in expected default rates in isolation would result in substantially lower (higher) valuations. Significant increases (decreases) in offered quotes in isolation would result in substantially higher (lower) valuations.

Foreign government securities

Significant spread widening in isolation will adversely impact the overall valuation, while significant spread tightening will lead to substantial valuation increases. Significant increases (decreases) in expected default rates in isolation would result in substantially lower (higher) valuations. Significant increases (decreases) in offered quotes in isolation would result in substantially higher (lower) valuations.

Structured securities comprised of RMBS, CMBS and ABS

Significant spread widening in isolation will adversely impact the overall valuation, while significant spread tightening will lead to substantial valuation increases. Significant increases (decreases) in offered quotes in isolation would result in substantially higher (lower) valuations. In general, changes in the assumptions used for the probability of default is accompanied by a directionally similar change in the assumption used for the loss severity and a directionally opposite change in the assumption used for prepayment rates.

Interest rate

Significant increases (decreases) in the unobservable portion of the swap yield curve in isolation will result in substantial valuation changes.

Foreign currency exchange rate

Significant increases (decreases) in the unobservable portion of the swap yield curve in isolation will result in substantial valuation changes. Increases (decreases) in currency correlation in isolation will increase (decrease) the significance of the change in valuations. 

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

Credit

Credit contracts with significant unobservable inputs are primarily comprised of credit default swaps written by the Company. Significant credit spread widening in isolation will result in substantially higher adverse valuations, while significant spread tightening will result in substantially lower adverse valuations. Significant increases (decreases) in offered quotes in isolation will result in substantially higher (lower) valuations.

Equity market

Significant decreases in the equity volatility in isolation will adversely impact overall valuation, while significant increases in equity volatility will result in substantial valuation increases. Increases (decreases) in correlation in isolation will increase (decrease) the significance of the change in valuations.

Direct and assumed guaranteed minimum benefits

For any increase (decrease) in mortality and lapse rates, the fair value of the guarantees will decrease (increase). For any increase (decrease) in utilization and volatility, the fair value of the guarantees will increase (decrease). Specifically for GMWBs, for any increase (decrease) in withdrawal rates, the fair value of the guarantees will increase (decrease). Specifically for GMABs and GMIBs, for any increase (decrease) in withdrawal rates, the fair value of the guarantees will decrease (increase).

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The following tables summarize the change of all assets and (liabilities) measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), including realized and unrealized gains (losses) of all assets and (liabilities) and realized and unrealized gains (losses) of all assets and (liabilities) still held at the end of the respective periods:

 

    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Fixed Maturity Securities:  
    U.S.
Corporate
Securities
    Foreign
Corporate
Securities
    Foreign
Government
Securities
    U.S.
Treasury
and Agency
Securities
    RMBS     CMBS     ABS     State and
Political
Subdivision
Securities
    Other
Fixed
Maturity
Securities
 
    (In millions)  

Three Months Ended September 30, 2012:

                 

Balance, beginning of period

  $ 7,394     $ 4,813     $ 2,386     $ 74     $ 2,363     $ 1,038     $ 2,680     $ 76      $   

Total realized/unrealized gains
(losses) included in:

                 

Net income (loss): (1), (2)

                 

Net investment income

    5       5       4              8              4                

Net investment gains (losses)

    (6     (13     6              (3     (1                     

Net derivative gains (losses)

                                                              

Other revenues

                                                              

Policyholder benefits and claims

                                                              

Other expenses

                                                              

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    323       135       43              108       7       32       1          

Purchases (3)

    442       630       370              249       416       215       15          

Sales (3)

    (348     (276     (254            (114     (249     (47     (6       

Issuances (3)

                                                              

Settlements (3)

                                                              

Transfers into Level 3 (4)

    128       172       51              11       26       2                

Transfers out of Level 3 (4)

    (239     (156     (16            (49     (23     (36     (21       
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 7,699     $ 5,310     $ 2,590     $ 74     $ 2,573     $ 1,214     $ 2,850     $ 65      $   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in unrealized gains (losses)
relating to assets and liabilities still held
at September 30, 2012 included in net
income (loss):

                 

Net investment income

  $ 3     $ 5     $ 5     $      $ 8     $      $ 4     $      $   

Net investment gains (losses)

  $ (3   $ (10   $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Net derivative gains (losses)

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other revenues

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Policyholder benefits and claims

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other expenses

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Equity Securities:     Trading and Other Securities:                    
    Common
Stock
    Non-
redeemable
Preferred
Stock
    Actively
Traded
Securities
    FVO
General
Account
Securities
    FVO
Contractholder-
directed
Unit-linked
Investments
    Short-term
Investments
    Mortgage
Loans
Held-
for-sale
    MSRs (5)  
    (In millions)  

Three Months Ended September 30, 2012:

               

Balance, beginning of period

  $ 282     $ 432     $ 13     $ 26     $ 1,096     $ 717     $ 211     $ 564  

Total realized/unrealized gains
(losses) included in:

               

Net income (loss): (1), (2)

               

Net investment income

                         7       32       1                

Net investment gains (losses)

    8       1                                            

Net derivative gains (losses)

                                                       

Other revenues

                                              (23     (37

Policyholder benefits and claims

                                                       

Other expenses

                                                       

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    (2     4                            15                

Purchases (3)

    76       1       14              903       515                

Sales (3)

    (102     (60     (11     (2     (909     (337     (145       

Issuances (3)

                                              2       4  

Settlements (3)

                                              (10     (41

Transfers into Level 3 (4)

           48                     1       186       30         

Transfers out of Level 3 (4)

                  (2            (2            (1       
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 262     $ 426     $ 14     $ 31     $ 1,121     $ 1,097     $ 64     $ 490  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in unrealized gains (losses)
relating to assets and liabilities still held
at September 30, 2012 included in net
income (loss):

               

Net investment income

  $      $      $      $ 6     $ 6     $      $      $   

Net investment gains (losses)

  $ (1   $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Net derivative gains (losses)

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other revenues

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $ (22   $ (24

Policyholder benefits and claims

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other expenses

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Net Derivatives: (6)     Net
Embedded
Derivatives (7)
    Separate
Account
Assets (8)
    Long-term
Debt of
CSEs
       
    Interest
Rate
    Foreign
Currency
Exchange
Rate
    Credit     Equity
Market
          Liability
Related

to  Securitized
Reverse
Residential
Mortgage
Loans
 
    (In millions)  

Three Months Ended September 30, 2012:

               

Balance, beginning of period

  $ 228     $ 40     $ 24     $ 575     $ (3,961   $ 1,445     $ (81   $ (98

Total realized/unrealized gains
(losses) included in:

               

Net income (loss): (1), (2)

               

Net investment income

                                                       

Net investment gains (losses)

                                       18       7         

Net derivative gains (losses)

    (7     20       16       (187     291                       

Other revenues

                                                       

Policyholder benefits and claims

                         11       (4                     

Other expenses

                                                       

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    (16                   1       (78                     

Purchases (3)

                         7              144                

Sales (3)

                                       (74            97  

Issuances (3)

                                                       

Settlements (3)

    12       (2            (82     (170            26       1  

Transfers into Level 3 (4)

                                       2                

Transfers out of Level 3 (4)

                                       (128              
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 217     $ 58     $ 40     $ 325     $ (3,922   $ 1,407     $ (48   $   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in unrealized gains (losses)
relating to assets and liabilities still held
at September 30, 2012 included in net
income (loss):

               

Net investment income

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Net investment gains (losses)

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $ 7     $   

Net derivative gains (losses)

  $ (4   $ 19     $ 16     $ (195   $ 283     $      $      $   

Other revenues

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Policyholder benefits and claims

  $      $      $      $ 10     $ (3   $      $      $   

Other expenses

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Fixed Maturity Securities:  
    U.S.
Corporate
Securities
    Foreign
Corporate
Securities
    Foreign
Government
Securities
    U.S.
Treasury
and Agency
Securities
    RMBS (9)     CMBS     ABS (9)     State and
Political
Subdivision
Securities
    Other
Fixed
Maturity
Securities
 
    (In millions)  

Three Months Ended September 30, 2011:

                 

Balance, beginning of period

  $ 6,871     $ 5,844     $ 3,161     $ 26     $ 1,499     $ 781     $ 1,386     $ 89      $ 2  

Total realized/unrealized gains
(losses) included in:

                 

Net income (loss): (1), (2)

                 

Net investment income

    4       9       9              2       5       6                

Net investment gains (losses)

    26       2       (206                   (1     (5              

Net derivative gains (losses)

                                                              

Other revenues

                                                              

Policyholder benefits and claims

                                                              

Other expenses

                                                              

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    227       (120     302       2       (52     (1     11       (1       

Purchases (3)

    455       199       427              208       115       431       11          

Sales (3)

    (185     (447     (30     (3     (49     (57     (94     (1     (2

Issuances (3)

                                                              

Settlements (3)

                                                              

Transfers into Level 3 (4)

           172       498       6       1       1       184                

Transfers out of Level 3 (4)

    (27     (930     (272                   (11     (147     (45       
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 7,371     $ 4,729     $ 3,889     $ 31     $ 1,609     $ 832     $ 1,772     $ 53      $   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in unrealized gains (losses)
relating to assets and liabilities still held
at September 30, 2011 included in net
income (loss):

                 

Net investment income

  $ 4     $ 8     $ 9     $      $ 2     $ 6     $ 6     $      $   

Net investment gains (losses)

  $ (3   $ (5   $ (205   $      $      $ (2   $ (7   $      $   

Net derivative gains (losses)

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other revenues

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Policyholder benefits and claims

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other expenses

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Equity Securities:     Trading and Other Securities:                    
    Common
Stock
    Non-
redeemable
Preferred
Stock
    Actively
Traded
Securities
    FVO
General
Account
Securities
    FVO
Contractholder-
directed
Unit-linked
Investments
    Short-term
Investments
    Mortgage
Loans Held-
for-sale
    MSRs (5)  
    (In millions)  

Three Months Ended September 30, 2011:

               

Balance, beginning of period

  $ 305     $ 654     $ 2     $ 54     $ 623     $ 732     $ 32     $ 964  

Total realized/unrealized gains
(losses) included in:

               

Net income (loss): (1), (2)

               

Net investment income

                         (12     (5     (1              

Net investment gains (losses)

    3       7                            (1              

Net derivative gains (losses)

                                                       

Other revenues

                                              (1     (292

Policyholder benefits and claims

                                                       

Other expenses

                                                       

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    (25     (69                          (1              

Purchases (3)

    14                            1,026       266       2         

Sales (3)

    (14     (84                   (297     (368              

Issuances (3)

                                                     46  

Settlements (3)

                                              (2     (32

Transfers into Level 3 (4)

           1                                   4         

Transfers out of Level 3 (4)

    (44                   (15     (84     (1     (5       
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 239     $ 509     $ 2     $ 27     $ 1,263     $ 626     $ 30     $ 686  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in unrealized gains (losses)
relating to assets and liabilities still held
at September 30, 2011 included in net
income (loss):

               

Net investment income

  $      $      $      $ (11   $ (4   $ (1   $      $   

Net investment gains (losses)

  $      $      $      $      $      $ (1   $      $   

Net derivative gains (losses)

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other revenues

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $ (1   $ (280

Policyholder benefits and claims

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other expenses

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

 

84


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Net Derivatives: (6)     Net
Embedded
Derivatives (7)
    Separate
Account
Assets (8)
    Long-term
Debt of
CSEs
 
    Interest
Rate
    Foreign
Currency
Exchange
Rate
    Credit     Equity
Market
       
    (In millions)  

Three Months Ended September 30, 2011:

             

Balance, beginning of period

  $ (67   $ 49     $ 42     $ 55     $ (2,074   $ 1,836     $ (134

Total realized/unrealized gains
(losses) included in:

             

Net income (loss): (1), (2)

             

Net investment income

                                                

Net investment gains (losses)

                                       3       (1

Net derivative gains (losses)

    21       2       (76     677       (2,314              

Other revenues

    68                                            

Policyholder benefits and claims

                                115                

Other expenses

                                                

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    317              15       1       (114              

Purchases (3)

    (1     16              119              187         

Sales (3)

                                       (152       

Issuances (3)

                         (4                     

Settlements (3)

    (41            (11     2       (121     (1     23  

Transfers into Level 3 (4)

    1                                   11         

Transfers out of Level 3 (4)

                                       (176       
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 298     $ 67     $ (30   $ 850     $ (4,508   $ 1,708     $ (112
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in unrealized gains (losses)
relating to assets and liabilities still held
at September 30, 2011 included in net
income (loss):

             

Net investment income

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Net investment gains (losses)

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $ (1

Net derivative gains (losses)

  $ 17     $ 2     $ (76   $ 677     $ (2,319   $      $   

Other revenues

  $ 79     $      $      $      $      $      $   

Policyholder benefits and claims

  $      $      $      $      $ 115     $      $   

Other expenses

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

 

85


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Fixed Maturity Securities:  
    U.S.
Corporate
Securities
    Foreign
Corporate
Securities
    Foreign
Government
Securities
    U.S.
Treasury
and Agency
Securities
    RMBS     CMBS     ABS     State and
Political
Subdivision
Securities
    Other
Fixed
Maturity
Securities
 
    (In millions)  

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012:

  

               

Balance, beginning of period

  $ 6,784     $ 4,370     $ 2,322     $ 31     $ 1,602     $ 753     $ 1,850     $ 53     $   

Total realized/unrealized gains
(losses) included in:

                 

Net income (loss): (1), (2)

                 

Net investment income

    10       16       4              20       7       14                

Net investment gains (losses)

    4       (68     (1            (7     (37     2                

Net derivative gains (losses)

                                                              

Other revenues

                                                              

Policyholder benefits and claims

                                                              

Other expenses

                                                              

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    351       233       26              149       21       19       4         

Purchases (3)

    1,371       1,535       1,003       49       1,060       695       1,293       15         

Sales (3)

    (865     (708     (467     (6     (315     (253     (286     (7       

Issuances (3)

                                                              

Settlements (3)

                                                              

Transfers into Level 3 (4)

    266       254       53              76       40       6                

Transfers out of Level 3 (4)

    (222     (322     (350            (12     (12     (48              
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 7,699     $ 5,310     $ 2,590     $ 74     $ 2,573     $ 1,214     $ 2,850     $ 65     $   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in unrealized gains (losses)
relating to assets and liabilities still held
at September 30, 2012 included in net
income (loss):

                 

Net investment income

  $ 8     $ 18     $ 12     $      $ 20     $ 2     $ 14     $      $   

Net investment gains (losses)

  $ (6   $ (27   $      $      $ (3   $ (4   $      $      $   

Net derivative gains (losses)

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other revenues

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Policyholder benefits and claims

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other expenses

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

 

86


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Equity Securities:     Trading and Other Securities:                    
    Common
Stock
    Non-
redeemable
Preferred
Stock
    Actively
Traded
Securities
    FVO
General
Account
Securities
    FVO
Contractholder-
directed Unit-
linked
Investments
    Short-term
Investments
    Mortgage
Loans
Held-
for-sale
    MSRs (5)  
    (In millions)  

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012:

               

Balance, beginning of period

  $ 281     $ 438     $      $ 23     $ 1,386     $ 590     $ 1,414     $ 666  

Total realized/unrealized gains
(losses) included in:

               

Net income (loss): (1), (2)

               

Net investment income

                         10       12       1                

Net investment gains (losses)

    (1     1                                            

Net derivative gains (losses)

                                                       

Other revenues

                                              (31     (122

Policyholder benefits and claims

                                                       

Other expenses

                                                       

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    7       23                            10                

Purchases (3)

    111       5       14              918       1,059       1         

Sales (3)

    (126     (89            (2     (1,159     (455     (1,348       

Issuances (3)

                                              6       109  

Settlements (3)

                                              (46     (163

Transfers into Level 3 (4)

    3       48                     2              72         

Transfers out of Level 3 (4)

    (13                          (38     (108     (4       
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 262     $ 426     $ 14     $ 31     $ 1,121     $ 1,097     $ 64     $ 490  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in unrealized gains (losses)
relating to assets and liabilities still held
at September 30, 2012 included in net
income (loss):

               

Net investment income

  $      $      $      $ 9     $ 1     $ (1   $      $   

Net investment gains (losses)

  $ (11   $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Net derivative gains (losses)

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other revenues

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $ (25   $ (88

Policyholder benefits and claims

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other expenses

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

 

87


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Net Derivatives: (6)                          
          Net
Embedded
Derivatives (7)
    Separate
Account
Assets (8)
    Long-term
Debt of
CSEs
    Liability Related
to Securitized
Reverse
Residential
Mortgage Loans
 
    Interest
Rate
    Foreign
Currency
Exchange
Rate
    Credit     Equity
Market
         
    (In millions)  

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012:

               

Balance, beginning of period

  $ 300     $ 44     $ 1     $ 889     $ (4,203   $ 1,325     $ (116   $ (1,175

Total realized/unrealized gains
(losses) included in:

               

Net income (loss): (1), (2)

               

Net investment income

                                                       

Net investment gains (losses)

                                       95       (2       

Net derivative gains (losses)

    16       30       44       (470     802                       

Other revenues

    (67                                               1  

Policyholder benefits and claims

                         22       (9                     

Other expenses

                                                       

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    13                     (1     (39                     

Purchases (3)

                         16              294                

Sales (3)

                                       (289            1,149  

Issuances (3)

                  (3                   1                

Settlements (3)

    (45     (16     (3     (131     (473     (3     70       23  

Transfers into Level 3 (4)

                                       25                

Transfers out of Level 3 (4)

                  1                     (41            2  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 217     $ 58     $ 40     $ 325     $ (3,922   $ 1,407     $ (48   $   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in unrealized gains (losses)
relating to assets and liabilities still held
at September 30, 2012 included in net
income (loss):

               

Net investment income

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Net investment gains (losses)

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $ (2   $   

Net derivative gains (losses)

  $ 2     $ 10     $ 43     $ (474   $ 781     $      $      $   

Other revenues

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Policyholder benefits and claims

  $      $      $      $ 22     $ (7   $      $      $   

Other expenses

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

 

88


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Fixed Maturity Securities:  
    U.S.
Corporate
Securities
    Foreign
Corporate
Securities
    Foreign
Government
Securities
    U.S.
Treasury
and Agency
Securities
    RMBS (9)     CMBS     ABS (9)     State and
Political
Subdivision
Securities
    Other
Fixed
Maturity
Securities
 
    (In millions)  

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011:

                 

Balance, beginning of period

  $ 7,149     $ 5,726     $ 3,134     $ 79     $ 2,541     $ 1,011     $ 3,026     $ 46     $ 4  

Total realized/unrealized gains
(losses) included in:

                 

Net income (loss): (1), (2)

                 

Net investment income

    8       22       38              8       21       18                

Net investment gains (losses)

    14       (20     (220            (13     67       (22              

Net derivative gains (losses)

                                                              

Other revenues

                                                              

Policyholder benefits and claims

                                                              

Other expenses

                                                              

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    372       44       332       2       (11     50       90       (8       

Purchases (3)

    1,016       1,571       1,164              251       287       754       11         

Sales (3)

    (674     (1,770     (411     (1     (247     (584     (471     (4       

Issuances (3)

                                                              

Settlements (3)

                                                              

Transfers into Level 3 (4)

    43       165       91       6       81       85       123       10         

Transfers out of Level 3 (4)

    (557     (1,009     (239     (55     (1,001     (105     (1,746     (2     (4
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 7,371     $ 4,729     $ 3,889     $ 31     $ 1,609     $ 832     $ 1,772     $ 53     $   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in unrealized gains (losses)
relating to assets and liabilities still held
at September 30, 2011 included in net
income (loss):

                 

Net investment income

  $ 7      $ 22     $ 36     $      $ 8     $ 19     $ 18     $      $   

Net investment gains (losses)

  $ (30   $ (20   $ (209   $      $ (13   $ (2   $ (10   $      $   

Net derivative gains (losses)

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other revenues

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Policyholder benefits and claims

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other expenses

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

 

89


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Equity Securities:     Trading and Other Securities:                    
    Common
Stock
    Non-
redeemable
Preferred
Stock
    Actively
Traded
Securities
    FVO
General
Account
Securities
    FVO
Contractholder-
directed
Unit-linked
Investments
    Short-term
Investments
    Mortgage
Loans Held-
for-sale
    MSRs (5)  
    (In millions)  

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011:

               

Balance, beginning of period

  $ 268     $ 905     $ 10     $ 77     $ 735     $ 858     $ 24     $ 950  

Total realized/unrealized gains
(losses) included in:

               

Net income (loss): (1), (2)

               

Net investment income

                         (3     61       3                

Net investment gains (losses)

    7       (63                          (2              

Net derivative gains (losses)

                                                       

Other revenues

                                              (2     (310

Policyholder benefits and claims

                                                       

Other expenses

                                                       

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    (12     31                            7                

Purchases (3)

    53       4              1       1,032       562       3         

Sales (3)

    (21     (379     (8     (33     (447     (798              

Issuances (3)

                                              1       138  

Settlements (3)

                                              (3     (92

Transfers into Level 3 (4)

    1       11                     123              9         

Transfers out of Level 3 (4)

    (57                   (15     (241     (4     (2       
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 239     $ 509     $ 2     $ 27     $ 1,263     $ 626     $ 30     $ 686  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in unrealized gains (losses)
relating to assets and liabilities still held
at September 30, 2011 included in net
income (loss):

               

Net investment income

  $      $      $      $ (5   $ 55     $ (2   $      $   

Net investment gains (losses)

  $ (4   $ (19   $      $      $      $ (1   $      $   

Net derivative gains (losses)

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other revenues

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $ (2   $ (298

Policyholder benefits and claims

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Other expenses

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

 

90


Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  
    Net Derivatives: (6)     Net
Embedded
Derivatives (7)
    Separate
Account
Assets (8)
    Long-term
Debt of
CSEs
 
    Interest
Rate
    Foreign
Currency
Exchange
Rate
    Credit     Equity
Market
       
    (In millions)  

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011:

             

Balance, beginning of period

  $ (86   $ 73     $ 44     $ 142     $ (2,438   $ 1,983     $ (184

Total realized/unrealized gains
(losses) included in:

             

Net income (loss): (1), (2)

             

Net investment income

                         (3                     

Net investment gains (losses)

                                       48       (8

Net derivative gains (losses)

    25       (1     (70     568       (1,722              

Other revenues

    75                                            

Policyholder benefits and claims

                                107                

Other expenses

                                                

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    325              13              (116              

Purchases (3)

    (1     21              225              422         

Sales (3)

                                       (502       

Issuances (3)

                  (3     (4                     

Settlements (3)

    (40            (13     (3     (339     (3     80  

Transfers into Level 3 (4)

                  (1                   18         

Transfers out of Level 3 (4)

           (26            (75            (258       
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 298     $ 67     $ (30   $ 850     $ (4,508   $ 1,708     $ (112
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in unrealized gains (losses)
relating to assets and liabilities still held
at September 30, 2011 included in net
income (loss):

             

Net investment income

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

Net investment gains (losses)

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $ (8

Net derivative gains (losses)

  $ 14     $ (1   $ (70   $ 569     $ (1,738   $      $   

Other revenues

  $ 80     $      $      $      $      $      $   

Policyholder benefits and claims

  $      $      $      $      $ 107     $      $   

Other expenses

  $      $      $      $      $      $      $   

 

(1)

Amortization of premium/discount is included within net investment income. Impairments charged to earnings on securities and certain mortgage loans are included in net investment gains (losses) while changes in the estimated fair value of certain mortgage loans and MSRs are included in other revenues. Lapses associated with net embedded derivatives are included in net derivative gains (losses).

 

(2)

Interest and dividend accruals, as well as cash interest coupons and dividends received, are excluded from the rollforward.

 

(3)

The amount reported within purchases, sales, issuances and settlements is the purchase or issuance price and the sales or settlement proceeds based upon the actual date purchased or issued and sold or settled, respectively. Items purchased/issued and sold/settled in the same period are excluded from the rollforward. Fees attributed to embedded derivatives are included in settlements.

 

(4)

Total gains and losses (in earnings and other comprehensive income (loss)) are calculated assuming transfers into and/or out of Level 3 occurred at the beginning of the period. Items transferred into and/or out of Level 3 in the same period are excluded from the rollforward.

 

(5)

Other revenues represent the changes in estimated fair value due to changes in valuation model inputs or assumptions. For the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, there was no other change in estimated fair value affecting MSRs. The additions for purchases, originations and issuances are presented within issuances and the reductions for loan payments, sales and settlements, affecting MSRs are presented within settlements.

 

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(6)

Freestanding derivative assets and liabilities are presented net for purposes of the rollforward.

 

(7)

Embedded derivative assets and liabilities are presented net for purposes of the rollforward.

 

(8)

Investment performance related to separate account assets is fully offset by corresponding amounts credited to contractholders within separate account liabilities. Therefore, such changes in estimated fair value are not recorded in net income. For the purpose of this disclosure, these changes are presented within net investment gains (losses).

 

(9)

See Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for discussion of a reclassification from the ABS sector to the RMBS sector for securities backed by sub-prime residential mortgage loans.

Fair Value Option

Residential Mortgage Loans Held-For-Sale

The following table presents residential mortgage loans held-for-sale accounted for under the FVO at:

 

    September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
    (In millions)  

Unpaid principal balance

  $ 91     $ 2,935  

Difference between estimated fair value and unpaid principal balance

    (27     129  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Carrying value at estimated fair value

  $ 64     $ 3,064  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loans in non-accrual status

  $ 3     $ 3  

Loans more than 90 days past due

  $ 26     $ 20  

Loans in non-accrual status or more than 90 days past due, or both — difference between
aggregate estimated fair value and unpaid principal balance

  $ (11   $ (2

Residential mortgage loans held-for-sale accounted for under the FVO are initially measured at estimated fair value. Interest income on residential mortgage loans held-for-sale is recorded based on the stated rate of the loan and is recorded in net investment income. Gains and losses from initial measurement, subsequent changes in estimated fair value and gains or losses on sales are recognized in other revenues. Such changes in estimated fair value for these loans were due to the following:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011      2012      2011  
     (In millions)  

Instrument-specific credit risk based on changes in credit spreads for non-agency loans and adjustments in individual loan quality

   $ (2   $       $       $ (3

Other changes in estimated fair value

     (27     174        71         353  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total gains (losses) recognized in other revenues

   $ (29   $ 174      $ 71       $ 350  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Securitized Reverse Residential Mortgage Loans

Securitized reverse residential mortgage loans accounted for under the FVO are initially measured at estimated fair value. Gains and losses from initial measurement and subsequent changes in estimated fair value are

 

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recognized in other revenues. The following table presents securitized reverse residential mortgage loans accounted for under the FVO at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

Unpaid principal balance

   $       $ 6,914  

Difference between estimated fair value and unpaid principal balance

             738  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Carrying value at estimated fair value

   $       $ 7,652  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Loans more than 90 days past due

   $       $ 59  

Loans more than 90 days past due — difference between aggregate estimated fair value and unpaid principal balance

   $       $   

The liability related to securitized reverse residential mortgage loans accounted for under the FVO is initially measured at estimated fair value. Gains and losses from initial measurement and subsequent changes in estimated fair value are recognized in other revenues. The following table presents the liability related to securitized reverse residential mortgage loans accounted for under the FVO at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

Contractual principal balance

   $       $ 6,914  

Difference between estimated fair value and contractual principal balance

             712  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Carrying value at estimated fair value

   $       $ 7,626  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Assets and Liabilities Held by CSEs

The Company has elected the FVO for the following assets and liabilities held by CSEs: commercial mortgage loans, securities and long-term debt. Information on the estimated fair value of the securities classified as trading and other securities is presented in Note 3. The following table presents these commercial mortgage loans accounted for under the FVO at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

Unpaid principal balance

   $ 2,752      $ 3,019  

Difference between estimated fair value and unpaid principal balance

     127        119  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Carrying value at estimated fair value

   $ 2,879      $ 3,138  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The following table presents the long-term debt accounted for under the FVO related to both the commercial mortgage loans and securities classified as trading and other securities at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

Contractual principal balance

   $ 2,624      $ 2,954  

Difference between estimated fair value and contractual principal balance

     109        114  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Carrying value at estimated fair value

   $ 2,733      $ 3,068  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Interest income on both commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs and securities classified as trading and other securities held by CSEs is recorded in net investment income. Interest expense on long-term debt of CSEs is recorded in other expenses. Gains and losses from initial measurement, subsequent changes in estimated fair value and gains or losses on sales of both the commercial mortgage loans and the long-term debt are recognized in net investment gains (losses). See Note 3.

Non-Recurring Fair Value Measurements

Certain assets are measured at estimated fair value on a non-recurring basis and are not included in the tables presented above. The amounts below relate to certain investments measured at estimated fair value during the period and still held at the reporting dates and which are categorized as Level 3 measurements.

 

     Three Months Ended September 30,  
     2012     2011  
     Carrying
Value Prior to
Measurement
     Estimated
Fair
Value After
Measurement
     Gains
(Losses)
    Carrying
Value Prior to
Measurement
     Estimated
Fair
Value After
Measurement
     Gains
(Losses)
 
     (In millions)  

Mortgage loans: (1)

                

Held-for-investment

   $ 383      $ 379      $ (4   $ 289      $ 245      $ (44

Held-for-sale

     184        174        (10     71        68        (3
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Mortgage loans, net

   $ 567      $ 553      $ (14   $ 360      $ 313      $ (47
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other limited partnership interests (2)

   $ 36      $ 27      $ (9   $ 5      $ 3      $ (2

Real estate joint ventures (3)

   $       $       $      $       $       $   

Goodwill (4)

   $ 1,868      $       $ (1,868   $ 65      $       $ (65

 

     Nine Months Ended September 30,  
     2012     2011  
     Carrying
Value Prior to
Measurement
     Estimated
Fair
Value After
Measurement
     Gains
(Losses)
    Carrying
Value Prior to
Measurement
     Estimated
Fair
Value After
Measurement
     Gains
(Losses)
 
     (In millions)  

Mortgage loans: (1)

                

Held-for-investment

   $ 370      $ 379      $ 9     $ 273      $ 245      $ (28

Held-for-sale

     213        174        (39     72        68        (4
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Mortgage loans, net

   $ 583      $ 553      $ (30   $ 345      $ 313      $ (32
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other limited partnership interests (2)

   $ 84      $ 61      $ (23   $ 18      $ 13      $ (5

Real estate joint ventures (3)

   $ 15      $ 10      $ (5   $       $       $   

Goodwill (4)

   $ 1,868      $       $ (1,868   $ 65      $       $ (65

 

 

(1)

Mortgage loans — These impaired mortgage loans are written down to their estimated fair values which are reported as losses. Subsequent improvements in estimated fair value on previously impaired loans recorded through a reduction in the previously established valuation allowance are reported as gains. Estimated fair values for impaired mortgage loans are based on market prices or, if the loans are in foreclosure or are otherwise determined to be collateral dependent, on the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral, or the present value of the expected future cash flows.

 

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(2)

Other limited partnership interests — These impaired investments were accounted for using the cost method. Impairments were recognized at estimated fair value determined from information provided in the financial statements of the underlying entities. These investments include private equity and debt funds that typically invest primarily in various strategies including domestic and international leveraged buyout funds; power, energy, timber and infrastructure development funds; venture capital funds; and below investment grade debt and mezzanine debt funds. The estimated fair values of these investments have been determined using NAV data. Distributions will be generated from investment gains, from operating income from the underlying investments of the funds and from liquidation of the underlying assets of the funds. It is estimated that the underlying assets of the funds will be liquidated over the next two to 10 years. Unfunded commitments for these investments were $6 million and $1 million at September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

 

(3)

Real estate joint ventures — These impaired investments were accounted for using the cost method. Impairments were recognized at estimated fair value determined from information provided in the financial statements of the underlying entities. These investments include several real estate funds that typically invest primarily in commercial real estate. The estimated fair values of these investments have been determined using NAV data. Distributions will be generated from investment gains, from operating income from the underlying investments of the funds and from liquidation of the underlying assets of the funds. It is estimated that the underlying assets of the funds will be liquidated over the next two to 10 years. Unfunded commitments for these investments were $10 million at September 30, 2012. There were no unfunded commitments for these investments at September 30, 2011.

 

(4)

Goodwill — As discussed in Note 7, in September 2012, the Company recorded an impairment of goodwill associated with the Retail Annuities reporting unit. In addition, as discussed in Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report, in September 2011, the Company recorded an impairment of goodwill associated with MetLife Bank. These impairments have been categorized as Level 3 due to the significant unobservable inputs used in the determination of the associated estimated fair value.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The tables below exclude certain financial instruments. The excluded financial instruments are as follows: cash and cash equivalents, accrued investment income, payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions, short-term debt and those short-term investments that are not securities, such as time deposits, and are excluded from the preceding three level hierarchy table. The estimated fair value of these financial instruments, which are primarily classified in Level 2, approximate carrying value as they are short-term in nature such that the Company believes there is minimal risk of material changes in interest rates or credit quality. The table below also excludes financial instruments reported at estimated fair value on a recurring basis. See “— Recurring Fair Value Measurements.” All remaining balance sheet amounts excluded from the table below are not considered financial instruments subject to this disclosure.

 

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The carrying values and estimated fair values for such financial instruments, and their corresponding placement in the fair value hierarchy, are summarized as follows at:

 

    September 30, 2012  
    Carrying
Value
    Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using        
      Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
and Liabilities
(Level 1)
    Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
    Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
    Total
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
    (In millions)  

Assets:

         

Mortgage loans:

         

Held-for-investment

  $ 55,005     $      $      $ 58,346     $ 58,346  

Held-for-sale

    1,222                     1,222       1,222  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Mortgage loans, net

  $ 56,227     $      $      $ 59,568     $ 59,568  

Policy loans

  $ 11,949     $      $ 1,698     $ 12,802     $ 14,500  

Real estate joint ventures

  $ 115     $      $      $ 168     $ 168  

Other limited partnership interests

  $ 1,203     $      $      $ 1,434     $ 1,434  

Other invested assets

  $ 1,467     $ 321     $ 64     $ 1,082     $ 1,467  

Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables

  $ 3,064     $      $ 526     $ 2,973     $ 3,499  

Other assets

  $ 252     $      $ 214     $ 70     $ 284  

Liabilities:

         

PABs

  $ 151,826     $      $      $ 160,480     $ 160,480  

Bank deposits

  $ 6,515     $      $ 1,982     $ 4,533     $ 6,515  

Long-term debt

  $ 16,854     $      $ 19,327     $      $ 19,327  

Collateral financing arrangements

  $ 4,196     $      $      $ 3,807     $ 3,807  

Junior subordinated debt securities

  $ 3,192     $      $ 3,870     $      $ 3,870  

Other liabilities

  $ 5,164     $      $ 3,789     $ 1,378     $ 5,167  

Separate account liabilities

  $ 62,122     $      $ 62,122     $      $ 62,122  

Commitments: (1)

         

Mortgage loan commitments

  $      $      $      $ 5     $ 5  

Commitments to fund bank credit facilities, bridge
loans and private corporate bond investments

  $      $      $ 43     $      $ 43  

 

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     December 31, 2011  
     Carrying
Value
     Estimated
Fair

Value
 
     (In millions)  

Assets:

     

Mortgage loans:

     

Held-for-investment

   $ 53,777      $ 56,422  

Held-for-sale

     4,462        4,462  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Mortgage loans, net

   $ 58,239      $ 60,884  

Policy loans

   $ 11,892      $ 14,213  

Real estate joint ventures

   $ 130      $ 183  

Other limited partnership interests

   $ 1,318      $ 1,656  

Other invested assets

   $ 1,434      $ 1,434  

Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables

   $ 4,639      $ 5,232  

Other assets

   $ 310      $ 308  

Liabilities:

     

PABs

   $ 146,890      $ 153,304  

Bank deposits

   $ 10,507      $ 10,507  

Long-term debt

   $ 20,587      $ 22,514  

Collateral financing arrangements

   $ 4,647      $ 4,136  

Junior subordinated debt securities

   $ 3,192      $ 3,491  

Other liabilities

   $ 4,087      $ 4,087  

Separate account liabilities

   $ 49,610      $ 49,610  

Commitments: (1)

     

Mortgage loan commitments

   $       $ 3  

Commitments to fund bank credit facilities, bridge
loans and private corporate bond investments

   $       $ 51  

 

 

(1)

Commitments are off-balance sheet obligations. Negative estimated fair values represent off-balance sheet liabilities. See Note 12 for additional information on these off-balance sheet obligations.

The methods, assumptions and significant valuation techniques and inputs used to estimate the fair value of financial instruments are summarized as follows:

Mortgage Loans

Mortgage loans held-for-investment

For commercial and agricultural mortgage loans, the estimated fair value was primarily determined by estimating expected future cash flows and discounting them using current interest rates for similar mortgage loans with similar credit risk. For residential mortgage loans, the estimated fair value was primarily determined from pricing for similar loans.

Mortgage loans held-for-sale

For these mortgage loans, estimated fair value is determined using independent non-binding broker quotations or valuation models using significant unobservable inputs.

 

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Policy Loans

Policy loans with fixed interest rates are classified within Level 3. The estimated fair values for these loans are determined using a DCF model applied to groups of similar policy loans determined by the nature of the underlying insurance liabilities. Cash flow estimates are developed by applying a weighted-average interest rate to the outstanding principal balance of the respective group of policy loans and an estimated average maturity determined through experience studies of the past performance of policyholder repayment behavior for similar loans. These cash flows are discounted using current risk-free interest rates with no adjustment for borrower credit risk as these loans are fully collateralized by the cash surrender value of the underlying insurance policy. Policy loans with variable interest rates are classified within Level 2 and the estimated fair value approximates carrying value due to the absence of borrower credit risk and the short time period between interest rate resets, which presents minimal risk of a material change in estimated fair value due to changes in market interest rates.

Real Estate Joint Ventures and Other Limited Partnership Interests

The amounts disclosed in the preceding tables consist of those investments accounted for using the cost method. The estimated fair values for cost method real estate joint ventures and other limited partnership interests are generally based on the Company’s share of the NAV as provided in the financial statements of the investees. In certain circumstances, management may adjust the NAV by a premium or discount when it has sufficient evidence to support applying such adjustments.

Other Invested Assets

Other invested assets within the preceding tables are principally comprised of funds withheld, various interest-bearing assets held in foreign subsidiaries and certain amounts due under contractual indemnifications. For funds withheld and for the various interest-bearing assets held in foreign subsidiaries, the Company evaluates the specific facts and circumstances of each instrument to determine the appropriate estimated fair values. These estimated fair values were not materially different from the recognized carrying values.

Premiums, Reinsurance and Other Receivables

Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables in the preceding tables are principally comprised of certain amounts recoverable under reinsurance agreements, amounts on deposit with financial institutions to facilitate daily settlements related to certain derivative positions and amounts receivable for securities sold but not yet settled.

Amounts recoverable under ceded reinsurance agreements, which the Company has determined do not transfer significant risk such that they are accounted for using the deposit method of accounting, have been classified as Level 3. The valuation is based on DCF methodologies using significant unobservable inputs. The estimated fair value is determined using interest rates determined to reflect the appropriate credit standing of the assuming counterparty.

The amounts on deposit for derivative settlements, classified within Level 2, essentially represent the equivalent of demand deposit balances and amounts due for securities sold are generally received over short periods such that the estimated fair value approximates carrying value.

Other Assets

Other assets in the preceding tables are primarily composed of a receivable for cash paid to an unaffiliated financial institution under the MetLife Reinsurance Company of Charleston (“MRC”) collateral financing arrangement as described in Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011

 

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Annual Report. The estimated fair value of the receivable for the cash paid to the unaffiliated financial institution under the MRC collateral financing arrangement is determined by discounting the expected future cash flows using a discount rate that reflects the credit rating of the unaffiliated financial institution.

PABs

PABs in the preceding tables include investment contracts. Embedded derivatives on investment contracts and certain variable annuity guarantees accounted for as embedded derivatives are excluded from this caption in the preceding tables as they are separately presented in “— Recurring Fair Value Measurements.”

The investment contracts primarily include certain funding agreements, fixed deferred annuities, modified guaranteed annuities, fixed term payout annuities and total control accounts. The valuation of these investment contracts is based on DCF methodologies using significant unobservable inputs. The estimated fair value is determined using current market risk-free interest rates adding a spread to reflect the nonperformance risk in the liability.

Bank Deposits

Due to the frequency of interest rate resets on customer bank deposits held in money market accounts, the Company believes that there is minimal risk of a material change in interest rates such that the estimated fair value approximates carrying value. For time deposits, the Company has taken into consideration the sale price for the pending disposition of most of the depository business of MetLife Bank to determine the estimated fair value of bank deposits. See Note 2.

Long-term Debt, Collateral Financing Arrangements and Junior Subordinated Debt Securities

The estimated fair values of long-term debt and junior subordinated debt securities are principally valued using market standard valuation methodologies and DCF methodologies. Valuations classified as Level 2 are based primarily on quoted prices in markets that are not active or using matrix pricing or other similar techniques that use standard market observable inputs such as quoted prices in markets that are not active and observable yields and spreads in the market. Instruments valued using DCF methodologies use standard market observable inputs including market yield curve, duration, call provisions, observable prices and spreads for similar publicly traded or privately traded issues. Valuations classified as Level 3 are based primarily on DCF methodologies that utilize unobservable discount rates applied to the expected future cash flows that can vary significantly based upon the specific terms of each individual arrangement. The determination of estimated fair values of collateral financing arrangements takes into account valuations obtained from the counterparties to the arrangements, as part of the collateral management process.

Capital leases, which are not required to be disclosed at estimated fair value, are excluded from the preceding tables.

Other Liabilities

Other liabilities consist primarily of interest and dividends payable, amounts due for securities purchased but not yet settled, funds withheld amounts payable, which are contractually withheld by the Company in accordance with the terms of the reinsurance agreements, and amounts payable under certain assumed reinsurance agreements, which are recorded using the deposit method of accounting. The Company evaluates the specific terms, facts and circumstances of each instrument to determine the appropriate estimated fair values, which are not materially different from the carrying values, with the exception of certain deposit type reinsurance payables. For such payables, the estimated fair value is determined as the present value of expected future cash flows,

 

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which are discounted using an interest rate determined to reflect the appropriate credit standing of the assuming counterparty.

Separate Account Liabilities

Separate account liabilities included in the preceding tables represent those balances due to policyholders under contracts that are classified as investment contracts.

Separate account liabilities classified as investment contracts primarily represent variable annuities with no significant mortality risk to the Company such that the death benefit is equal to the account balance, funding agreements related to group life contracts and certain contracts that provide for benefit funding.

Since separate account liabilities are fully funded by cash flows from the separate account assets which are recognized at estimated fair value as described in the section “— Recurring Fair Value Measurements,” the value of those assets approximates the estimated fair value of the related separate account liabilities. The valuation techniques and inputs for separate account liabilities are similar to those described for separate account assets.

Mortgage Loan Commitments and Commitments to Fund Bank Credit Facilities, Bridge Loans and Private Corporate Bond Investments

The estimated fair values for mortgage loan commitments that will be held for investment and commitments to fund bank credit facilities, bridge loans and private corporate bonds that will be held for investment reflected in the above tables represent the difference between the discounted expected future cash flows using interest rates that incorporate current credit risk for similar instruments on the reporting date and the principal amounts of the commitments.

6. Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired

Information regarding DAC and VOBA was as follows:

 

     Nine Months Ended September 30,  
     2012     2011  
     DAC     VOBA     Total     DAC     VOBA     Total  
     (In millions)  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 15,240     $ 9,379     $ 24,619     $ 13,377     $ 11,088     $ 24,465  

Capitalizations

     3,981              3,981       4,158              4,158  

Acquisitions

            55       55                       
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Subtotal

     19,221       9,434       28,655       17,535       11,088       28,623  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Amortization related to:

            

Net investment gains (losses)

     (78     (1     (79     (465     (46     (511

Other expenses

     (2,138     (984     (3,122     (2,049     (1,351     (3,400
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total amortization

     (2,216     (985     (3,201     (2,514     (1,397     (3,911
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Unrealized investment gains (losses)

     (617     (221     (838     (402     (352     (754

Effect of foreign currency translation and other

     73       (85     (12     (100     658       558  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 16,461     $ 8,143     $ 24,604     $ 14,519     $ 9,997     $ 24,516  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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Amortization of DAC and VOBA is attributed to both investment gains and losses and to other expenses for the amount of gross margins or profits originating from transactions other than investment gains and losses. Unrealized investment gains and losses represent the amount of DAC and VOBA that would have been amortized if such gains and losses had been recognized.

See Note 1 for information on the retrospective application of the adoption of new accounting guidance related to DAC. See also Note 17 for information on the continued realignment of certain products and businesses among the Company’s existing segments during the third quarter of 2012, which was retrospectively applied.

Information regarding DAC and VOBA by segment, as well as Corporate & Other, was as follows:

 

    DAC     VOBA     Total  
    September 30,
2012
    December 31,
2011
    September 30,
2012
    December 31,
2011
    September 30,
2012
    December 31,
2011
 
    (In millions)  

Retail

  $ 10,487     $ 10,470     $ 863     $ 1,211     $ 11,350     $ 11,681  

Group, Voluntary &
Worksite Benefits

    382       377                     382       377  

Corporate Benefit Funding

    97       86       2       3       99       89  

Latin America

    838       693       362       357       1,200       1,050  

Asia

    3,796       2,990       5,855       6,564       9,651       9,554  

EMEA

    861       623       1,061       1,243       1,922       1,866  

Corporate & Other

           1              1              2  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 16,461     $ 15,240     $ 8,143     $ 9,379     $ 24,604     $ 24,619  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

7. Goodwill

The Company tests goodwill for impairment during the third quarter of each year at the reporting unit level based upon data at June 30 of that year. A reporting unit is the operating segment or a business one level below the operating segment, if discrete financial information is prepared and regularly reviewed by management at that level. Step 1 of the goodwill impairment process requires a comparison of the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying value. To determine the fair values for our reporting units, the Company generally applies a market multiple and/or DCF valuation approach. The market multiple valuation approach utilizes market multiples of companies with similar businesses and the projected operating earnings of the reporting unit. The DCF valuation approach requires judgments about revenues, operating earnings projections, capital market assumptions and discount rates.

Since the market multiple and DCF valuation techniques indicated that the fair value of the Retail Annuities reporting unit was below its carrying value, an actuarial appraisal, which estimates the net worth of the reporting unit, the value of existing business and the value of new business, was also performed. This appraisal also resulted in a fair value of the Retail Annuities reporting unit that was less than the carrying value, indicating a potential for goodwill impairment. The growing concern regarding an extended period of low interest rates was reflected in the fair value estimate, particularly on the returns a market buyer would assume on the fixed income portion of separate account annuity products. In addition, industry-wide inquiries by regulators on the use of affiliated captive reinsurers for off-shore entities to reinsure insurance risks may limit access to this type of capital structure. As a result, a market buyer may discount the ability to fully utilize these structures, which also affected the fair value estimate of the reporting unit. Accordingly, the Company performed Step 2 of the goodwill impairment process, which compares the implied fair value of goodwill with the carrying value of that goodwill in the reporting unit to calculate the amount of goodwill impairment. The Company determined that all

 

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of the recorded goodwill associated with the Retail Annuities reporting unit was not recoverable and recorded a non-cash charge of $1.9 billion ($1.6 billion, net of income tax) for the impairment of the entire goodwill balance in the interim condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income for both the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012.

In addition, the Company performed its annual goodwill impairment tests of its other reporting units during the third quarter of 2012 using a market multiple and/or DCF valuation approach based upon data at June 30, 2012 and concluded that the fair values of all such reporting units were in excess of their carrying values and, therefore, goodwill was not impaired.

As anticipated, in the third quarter of 2012, the Company continued to realign certain products and businesses among its existing segments. As a result, the Company reallocated goodwill from the former segments to and among the new segments based on the relative fair value method as shown in the below table under “Goodwill Transfers.” As a result of the realignment during the third quarter, the Company performed an analysis to identify all reporting units under the revised structure. Based on a qualitative assessment performed, the Company concluded that at September 30, 2012 there were no indicators of a scenario in which it was more likely than not that any reporting units had a carrying value that exceeded fair value, and thus, no further impairment analysis was performed.

Management continues to evaluate current market conditions that may affect the estimated fair value of the reporting units to assess whether any goodwill impairment exists. Deteriorating or adverse market conditions for certain reporting units may have a significant impact on the estimated fair value of these reporting units and could result in future impairments of goodwill.

The following table presents the changes in the net carrying amount of goodwill in each of the Company’s segments, as well as Corporate & Other, and the balances at:

 

    December 31, 2011     Goodwill
Transfers
    Impairments (1)     Effect of Foreign
Currency Translation
and Other
    September 30, 2012  
    (In millions)  

Retail

  $ 2,955     $ 170     $ (1,692   $      $ 1,433  

Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits

    308       (170                   138  

Corporate Benefit Funding

    900                            900  

Latin America

    501                     30       531  

Asia (2)

    5,443       90              (50     5,483  

EMEA

    1,423       (90            (23     1,310  

Corporate & Other (3)

    405              (176            229  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 11,935     $      $ (1,868   $ (43   $ 10,024  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

At September 30, 2012, the Company’s accumulated goodwill impairment loss was $1.9 billion, of which $1.7 billion was recorded in Retail and $241 million was recorded in Corporate & Other. At December 31, 2011, the Company’s accumulated goodwill impairment loss of $65 million, recorded in Corporate & Other, was related to acquisitions by MetLife Bank and such charge was included in net investment gains (losses) for both the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011.

 

(2)

Includes goodwill of $5.3 billion and $5.4 billion from the Japan operations at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

 

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(3)

The $405 million of net goodwill in Corporate & Other at December 31, 2011, relates to goodwill acquired as a part of the 2005 Travelers acquisition. For purposes of goodwill impairment testing, the $405 million of Corporate & Other goodwill was allocated to business units of the Retail; Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits; and Corporate Benefit Funding segments in the amounts of $210 million, $9 million and $186 million, respectively. The Retail segment amount was further allocated within the segment to the Life & Other and the Annuities reporting units in the amounts of $34 million and $176 million, respectively. As reflected in the table, the $176 million related to the Retail Annuities reporting unit was impaired in the third quarter of 2012.

8. Insurance

Insurance Liabilities

Insurance liabilities were as follows:

 

     Future Policy
Benefits
     Policyholder Account
Balances
     Other Policy-Related
Balances
 
     September 30,
2012
     December 31,
2011
     September 30,
2012
     December 31,
2011
     September 30,
2012
     December 31,
2011
 
     (In millions)  

Retail

   $ 67,480      $ 66,451      $ 67,417      $ 69,553      $ 2,820      $ 2,868  

Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits

     17,883        16,309        9,039        9,273        3,493        3,317  

Corporate Benefit Funding

     52,497        49,657        64,162        56,367        181        201  

Latin America

     7,325        6,299        7,017        6,159        1,493        1,432  

Asia

     33,671        32,419        63,953        59,739        6,102        6,109  

EMEA

     6,084        6,864        12,204        14,235        1,245        1,249  

Corporate & Other

     6,128        6,276        3,090        2,374        502        423  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 191,068      $ 184,275      $ 226,882      $ 217,700      $ 15,836      $ 15,599  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

See Note 17 for information on the continued realignment of certain products and businesses among the Company’s existing segments during the third quarter of 2012, which was retrospectively applied.

Guarantees

As discussed in Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report, the Company issues variable annuity products with guaranteed minimum benefits. The non-life-contingent portion of GMWB, GMAB and the portion of certain GMIB that does not require annuitization are accounted for as embedded derivatives in PABs. These guarantees are recorded at estimated fair value with changes in estimated fair value recorded in net derivative gains (losses), and are excluded from the net amount at risk (“NAR”) and other disclosures below.

The Company issues annuity contracts that apply a lower rate of funds deposited if the contractholder elects to surrender the contract for cash and a higher rate if the contractholder elects to annuitize (“two tier annuities”). These guarantees include benefits that are payable in the event of death, maturity or at annuitization. Additionally, the Company issues universal and variable life contracts where the Company contractually guarantees to the contractholder a secondary guarantee or a guaranteed paid-up benefit.

 

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Based on the type of guarantee, the Company defines NAR as listed below. These amounts include direct and assumed business, but exclude offsets from hedging or reinsurance, if any.

 

   

In the Event of Death — Defined as the guaranteed minimum death benefit less the total contract account value, as of the balance sheet date. It represents the amount of the claim that the Company would incur if death claims were filed on all contracts on the balance sheet date.

 

   

At Annuitization — Defined as the amount (if any) that would be required to be added to the total contract account value to purchase a lifetime income stream, based on current annuity rates, equal to the minimum amount provided under the guaranteed benefit. This amount represents the Company’s potential economic exposure to such guarantees in the event all contractholders were to annuitize on the balance sheet date, even though the contracts contain terms that only allow annuitization of the guaranteed amount after the 10th anniversary of the contract, which not all contractholders have achieved.

 

   

Two Tier Annuities — Defined as the excess of the upper tier, adjusted for a profit margin, less the lower tier, as of the balance sheet date. These contracts apply a lower rate of funds if the contractholder elects to surrender the contract for cash and a higher rate if the contractholder elects to annuitize.

 

   

Universal and Variable Life Contracts — Defined as the guarantee amount less the account value, as of the balance sheet date. It represents the amount of the claim that the Company would incur if death claims were filed on all contracts on the balance sheet date.

Information regarding the liabilities for guarantees (excluding base policy liabilities) relating to annuity and universal and variable life contracts was as follows:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     In the
Event of Death
     At
Annuitization
    In the
Event of Death
     At
Annuitization
 
     (In millions)  

Annuity Contracts (1)

          

Variable Annuity Guarantees

          

Total contract account value (3)

   $ 181,936      $ 86,174     $ 163,845      $ 72,016  

Separate account value

   $ 141,262      $ 81,711     $ 121,841      $ 66,739  

Net amount at risk

   $ 11,754      $ 3,895 (2)    $ 16,641      $ 2,686 (2) 

Average attained age of contractholders

     62 years         62 years        62 years         61 years   

Two Tier Annuities

          

General account value

     N/A       $ 410       N/A       $ 386  

Net amount at risk

     N/A       $ 59       N/A       $ 60  

Average attained age of contractholders

     N/A         61 years        N/A         60 years   
     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Secondary
Guarantees
     Paid-Up
Guarantees
    Secondary
Guarantees
     Paid-Up
Guarantees
 
     (In millions)  

Universal and Variable Life Contracts (1)

          

Account value (general and separate account)

   $ 14,007      $ 3,861     $ 12,946      $ 3,963  

Net amount at risk

   $ 190,458      $ 23,666     $ 188,642      $ 24,991  

Average attained age of policyholders

     54 years         59 years        53 years         59 years   

 

 

(1)

The Company’s annuity and life contracts with guarantees may offer more than one type of guarantee in each contract. Therefore, the amounts listed above may not be mutually exclusive.

 

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(2)

The Company had previously disclosed the NAR based on the excess of the benefit base over the contractholder’s total contract account value on the balance sheet date. Such amounts were $9.3 billion and $12.1 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The Company has provided, in the table above, the NAR as defined above. The Company believes that this definition is more representative of the potential economic exposures of these guarantees as the contractholders do not have access to this difference other than through annuitization.

 

(3)

Includes amounts, which are not reported in the consolidated balance sheets, from assumed reinsurance of certain variable annuity products from the Company’s former operating joint venture in Japan.

See Note 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report.

9. Closed Block

On April 7, 2000 (the “Demutualization Date”), MLIC converted from a mutual life insurance company to a stock life insurance company and became a wholly-owned subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. The conversion was pursuant to an order by the New York Superintendent of Insurance approving MLIC’s plan of reorganization, as amended (the “Plan”). On the Demutualization Date, MLIC established a closed block for the benefit of holders of certain individual life insurance policies of MLIC.

Experience within the closed block, in particular mortality and investment yields, as well as realized and unrealized gains and losses, directly impact the policyholder dividend obligation. Amortization of the closed block DAC, which resides outside of the closed block, is based upon cumulative actual and expected earnings within the closed block. Accordingly, the Company’s net income continues to be sensitive to the actual performance of the closed block.

 

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Information regarding the closed block liabilities and assets designated to the closed block was as follows:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

Closed Block Liabilities

    

Future policy benefits

   $ 42,680     $ 43,169  

Other policy-related balances

     325       358  

Policyholder dividends payable

     561       514  

Policyholder dividend obligation

     3,909       2,919  

Other liabilities

     723       613  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total closed block liabilities

     48,198       47,573  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Assets Designated to the Closed Block

    

Investments:

    

Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value

     31,198       30,407  

Equity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value

     44       35  

Mortgage loans

     6,242       6,206  

Policy loans

     4,673       4,657  

Real estate and real estate joint ventures

     344       364  

Other invested assets

     819       857  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investments

     43,320       42,526  

Cash and cash equivalents

     254       249  

Accrued investment income

     519       509  

Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables

     97       109  

Current income tax recoverable

            53  

Deferred income tax assets

     341       362  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets designated to the closed block

     44,531       43,808  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Excess of closed block liabilities over assets designated to the closed block

     3,667       3,765  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):

    

Unrealized investment gains (losses), net of income tax

     2,980       2,394  

Unrealized gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net of income tax

     13       11  

Allocated to policyholder dividend obligation, net of income tax

     (2,541     (1,897
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

     452       508  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Maximum future earnings to be recognized from closed block assets and liabilities

   $ 4,119     $ 4,273  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Information regarding the closed block policyholder dividend obligation was as follows:

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30, 2012
     Year
Ended
December 31, 2011
 
     (In millions)  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 2,919      $ 876  

Change in unrealized investment and derivative gains (losses)

     990        2,043  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 3,909      $ 2,919  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Information regarding the closed block revenues and expenses was as follows:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011      2012     2011  
     (In millions)  

Revenues

         

Premiums

   $ 512     $ 554      $ 1,538     $ 1,657  

Net investment income

     555       553        1,644       1,697  

Net investment gains (losses)

     6       22        30       32  

Net derivative gains (losses)

     (9     17        (7     3  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenues

     1,064       1,146        3,205       3,389  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Expenses

         

Policyholder benefits and claims

     654       731        2,016       2,166  

Policyholder dividends

     278       304        821       897  

Other expenses

     45       48        136       146  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

     977       1,083        2,973       3,209  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Revenues, net of expenses before provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     87       63        232       180  

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     30       25        82       63  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Revenues, net of expenses and provision for income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations

     57       38        150       117  

Revenues, net of expenses and provision for income tax expense (benefit) from discontinued operations

                    4       1  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Revenues, net of expenses and provision for income tax expense (benefit) and discontinued operations

   $ 57     $ 38      $ 154     $ 118  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

MLIC charges the closed block with federal income taxes, state and local premium taxes and other additive state or local taxes, as well as investment management expenses relating to the closed block as provided in the Plan. MLIC also charges the closed block for expenses of maintaining the policies included in the closed block.

10. Long-term Debt

Senior Notes

In August 2012, MetLife, Inc. issued $750 million of senior notes due in August 2042. The senior notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 4.125% payable semi-annually. In connection with the issuance, MetLife, Inc. incurred $7 million of related costs which have been capitalized and included in other assets. These costs are being amortized over the term of the senior notes.

Credit Facility

In September 2012, MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Funding, Inc. entered into a $1.0 billion five-year credit agreement which amended and restated the three-year agreement dated October 2010. All borrowings under the 2012 five-year credit agreement must be repaid by September 2017, except that letters of credit outstanding on that date may remain outstanding until no later than September 2018. MetLife, Inc. incurred costs of $4 million

 

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related to the amended and restated credit facility, which have been capitalized and included in other assets. These costs will be amortized over the remaining term of the amended and restated facility.

11. Collateral Financing Arrangements

Associated with the Closed Block

In June 2012, following regulatory approval, MRC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of MetLife, Inc., repurchased and canceled $451 million in aggregate principal amount of surplus notes (the “Partial Repurchase”) that MRC issued in December 2007 in connection with MLIC reinsuring a portion of its closed block liabilities to MRC. Payments made by MetLife, Inc. in June 2012 associated with the Partial Repurchase, which also included payments made to the unaffiliated financial institution with which MetLife, Inc. entered into an agreement in 2007 in connection with the issuance of the surplus notes, totaled $451 million, exclusive of accrued interest on the surplus notes. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the amount of the surplus notes issued by MRC that remained outstanding was $1.4 billion and $1.9 billion, respectively. See Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report.

12. Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees

Contingencies

Litigation

The Company is a defendant in a large number of litigation matters in multiple jurisdictions around the world. In some of the matters, very large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive and treble damages, are sought. Modern pleading practice in the U.S. and other countries permits considerable variation in the assertion of monetary damages or other relief. Jurisdictions may permit claimants not to specify the monetary damages sought or may permit claimants to state only that the amount sought is sufficient to invoke the jurisdiction of the trial court. In addition, jurisdictions may permit plaintiffs to allege monetary damages in amounts well exceeding reasonably possible verdicts in the jurisdiction for similar matters. This variability in pleadings, together with the actual experience of the Company in litigating or resolving through settlement numerous claims over an extended period of time, demonstrates to management that the monetary relief which may be specified in a lawsuit or claim bears little relevance to its merits or disposition value.

Due to the vagaries of litigation, the outcome of a litigation matter and the amount or range of potential loss at particular points in time may normally be difficult to ascertain. Uncertainties can include how fact finders will evaluate documentary evidence and the credibility and effectiveness of witness testimony, and how trial and appellate courts will apply the law in the context of the pleadings or evidence presented, whether by motion practice, or at trial or on appeal. Disposition valuations are also subject to the uncertainty of how opposing parties and their counsel will themselves view the relevant evidence and applicable law.

The Company establishes liabilities for litigation and regulatory loss contingencies when it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Liabilities have been established for a number of the matters noted below. It is possible that some of the matters could require the Company to pay damages or make other expenditures or establish accruals in amounts that could not be estimated at September 30, 2012. While the potential future charges could be material in the particular quarterly or annual periods in which they are recorded, based on information currently known to management, management does not believe any such charges are likely to have a material effect on the Company’s financial position.

 

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Matters as to Which an Estimate Can Be Made

For some of the matters disclosed below, the Company is able to estimate a reasonably possible range of loss. For such matters where a loss is believed to be reasonably possible, but not probable, no accrual has been made. As of September 30, 2012, the Company estimates the aggregate range of reasonably possible losses in excess of amounts accrued for these matters to be approximately $0 to $145 million.

Matters as to Which an Estimate Cannot Be Made

For other matters disclosed below, the Company is not currently able to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss. The Company is often unable to estimate the possible loss or range of loss until developments in such matters have provided sufficient information to support an assessment of the range of possible loss, such as quantification of a damage demand from plaintiffs, discovery from other parties and investigation of factual allegations, rulings by the court on motions or appeals, analysis by experts, and the progress of settlement negotiations. On a quarterly and annual basis, the Company reviews relevant information with respect to litigation contingencies and updates its accruals, disclosures and estimates of reasonably possible losses or ranges of loss based on such reviews.

Asbestos-Related Claims

MLIC is and has been a defendant in a large number of asbestos-related suits filed primarily in state courts. These suits principally allege that the plaintiff or plaintiffs suffered personal injury resulting from exposure to asbestos and seek both actual and punitive damages. MLIC has never engaged in the business of manufacturing, producing, distributing or selling asbestos or asbestos-containing products nor has MLIC issued liability or workers’ compensation insurance to companies in the business of manufacturing, producing, distributing or selling asbestos or asbestos-containing products. The lawsuits principally have focused on allegations with respect to certain research, publication and other activities of one or more of MLIC’s employees during the period from the 1920’s through approximately the 1950’s and allege that MLIC learned or should have learned of certain health risks posed by asbestos and, among other things, improperly publicized or failed to disclose those health risks. MLIC believes that it should not have legal liability in these cases. The outcome of most asbestos litigation matters, however, is uncertain and can be impacted by numerous variables, including differences in legal rulings in various jurisdictions, the nature of the alleged injury and factors unrelated to the ultimate legal merit of the claims asserted against MLIC. MLIC employs a number of resolution strategies to manage its asbestos loss exposure, including seeking resolution of pending litigation by judicial rulings and settling individual or groups of claims or lawsuits under appropriate circumstances.

Claims asserted against MLIC have included negligence, intentional tort and conspiracy concerning the health risks associated with asbestos. MLIC’s defenses (beyond denial of certain factual allegations) include that: (i) MLIC owed no duty to the plaintiffs— it had no special relationship with the plaintiffs and did not manufacture, produce, distribute or sell the asbestos products that allegedly injured plaintiffs; (ii) plaintiffs did not rely on any actions of MLIC; (iii) MLIC’s conduct was not the cause of the plaintiffs’ injuries; (iv) plaintiffs’ exposure occurred after the dangers of asbestos were known; and (v) the applicable time with respect to filing suit has expired. During the course of the litigation, certain trial courts have granted motions dismissing claims against MLIC, while other trial courts have denied MLIC’s motions to dismiss. There can be no assurance that MLIC will receive favorable decisions on motions in the future. While most cases brought to date have settled, MLIC intends to continue to defend aggressively against claims based on asbestos exposure, including defending claims at trials.

As reported in the 2011 Annual Report, MLIC received approximately 4,972 asbestos-related claims in 2011. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, MLIC received approximately 3,909 and 3,750

 

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new asbestos-related claims, respectively. See Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for historical information concerning asbestos claims and MLIC’s increase in its recorded liability at December 31, 2002. The number of asbestos cases that may be brought, the aggregate amount of any liability that MLIC may incur, and the total amount paid in settlements in any given year are uncertain and may vary significantly from year to year.

The ability of MLIC to estimate its ultimate asbestos exposure is subject to considerable uncertainty, and the conditions impacting its liability can be dynamic and subject to change. The availability of reliable data is limited and it is difficult to predict the numerous variables that can affect liability estimates, including the number of future claims, the cost to resolve claims, the disease mix and severity of disease in pending and future claims, the impact of the number of new claims filed in a particular jurisdiction and variations in the law in the jurisdictions in which claims are filed, the possible impact of tort reform efforts, the willingness of courts to allow plaintiffs to pursue claims against MLIC when exposure to asbestos took place after the dangers of asbestos exposure were well known, and the impact of any possible future adverse verdicts and their amounts.

The ability to make estimates regarding ultimate asbestos exposure declines significantly as the estimates relate to years further in the future. In the Company’s judgment, there is a future point after which losses cease to be probable and reasonably estimable. It is reasonably possible that the Company’s total exposure to asbestos claims may be materially greater than the asbestos liability currently accrued and that future charges to income may be necessary. To the extent the Company can estimate reasonably possible losses in excess of amounts accrued, it has been included in the aggregate estimate of reasonably possible loss provided above. While the potential future charges could be material in the particular quarterly or annual periods in which they are recorded, based on information currently known by management, management does not believe any such charges are likely to have a material effect on the Company’s financial position.

The Company believes adequate provision has been made in its consolidated financial statements for all probable and reasonably estimable losses for asbestos-related claims. MLIC’s recorded asbestos liability is based on its estimation of the following elements, as informed by the facts presently known to it, its understanding of current law and its past experiences: (i) the probable and reasonably estimable liability for asbestos claims already asserted against MLIC, including claims settled but not yet paid; (ii) the probable and reasonably estimable liability for asbestos claims not yet asserted against MLIC, but which MLIC believes are reasonably probable of assertion; and (iii) the legal defense costs associated with the foregoing claims. Significant assumptions underlying MLIC’s analysis of the adequacy of its recorded liability with respect to asbestos litigation include: (i) the number of future claims; (ii) the cost to resolve claims; and (iii) the cost to defend claims.

MLIC reevaluates on a quarterly and annual basis its exposure from asbestos litigation, including studying its claims experience, reviewing external literature regarding asbestos claims experience in the U.S., assessing relevant trends impacting asbestos liability and considering numerous variables that can affect its asbestos liability exposure on an overall or per claim basis. These variables include bankruptcies of other companies involved in asbestos litigation, legislative and judicial developments, the number of pending claims involving serious disease, the number of new claims filed against it and other defendants and the jurisdictions in which claims are pending. Based upon its regular reevaluation of its exposure from asbestos litigation, MLIC has updated its liability analysis for asbestos-related claims through September 30, 2012.

Regulatory Matters

The Company receives and responds to subpoenas or other inquiries from state regulators, including state insurance commissioners; state attorneys general or other state governmental authorities; federal regulators,

 

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including the SEC; federal governmental authorities, including congressional committees; and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) seeking a broad range of information. The issues involved in information requests and regulatory matters vary widely. The Company cooperates in these inquiries.

MetLife Bank Mortgage Regulatory and Law Enforcement Authorities’ Inquiries. Since 2008, MetLife, through its affiliate, MetLife Bank, has been engaged in the forward and reverse residential mortgage origination and servicing business. State and federal regulatory and law enforcement authorities have initiated various inquiries, investigations or examinations of alleged irregularities in the foreclosure practices of the residential mortgage servicing industry. Mortgage servicing practices have also been the subject of Congressional attention. Authorities have publicly stated that the scope of the investigations extends beyond foreclosure documentation practices to include mortgage loan modification and loss mitigation practices.

On April 13, 2011, the OCC entered into consent decrees with several banks, including MetLife Bank. The consent decrees require an independent review of foreclosure practices and set forth new residential mortgage servicing standards, including a requirement for a designated point of contact for a borrower during the loss mitigation process. In addition, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve Board”) entered into consent decrees with the affiliated bank holding companies of these banks, including MetLife, Inc., to enhance the supervision of the mortgage servicing activities of their banking subsidiaries. On August 6, 2012, the Federal Reserve Board issued an Order of Assessment of a Civil Monetary Penalty Issued Upon Consent against MetLife, Inc. that will impose a penalty of up to $3.2 million for the alleged deficiencies in oversight of MetLife Bank’s servicing of residential mortgage loans and processing foreclosures that were the subject of the 2011 consent decree.

MetLife Bank also had a meeting with the Department of Justice regarding mortgage servicing and foreclosure practices. It is possible that various state or federal regulatory and law enforcement authorities may seek monetary penalties from MetLife Bank relating to foreclosure practices.

MetLife Bank has also responded to a subpoena issued by the New York State Department of Financial Services (“Department of Financial Services”) regarding hazard insurance and flood insurance that MetLife Bank obtains to protect the lienholder’s interest when the borrower’s insurance has lapsed. In April and May 2012, MetLife Bank received two subpoenas issued by the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development regarding Federal Housing Administration (“FHA”) insured loans. In June and September 2012, MetLife Bank received two Civil Investigative Demands that the U.S. Department of Justice issued as part of a False Claims Act investigation of allegations that MetLife Bank had improperly originated and/or underwritten loans insured by the FHA.

The consent decrees, as well as the inquiries or investigations referred to above, could adversely affect MetLife’s reputation or result in material fines, penalties, equitable remedies or other enforcement actions, and result in significant legal costs in responding to governmental investigations or other litigation. In addition, the changes to the mortgage servicing business required by the consent decrees and the resolution of any other inquiries or investigations may affect the profitability of such business. The Company is unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss arising from the MetLife Bank regulatory matters. Management believes that the Company’s consolidated financial statements as a whole will not be materially affected by the MetLife Bank regulatory matters.

United States of America v. EME Homer City Generation, L.P., et al. (W.D. Pa., filed January 4, 2011). On January 4, 2011, the U.S. commenced a civil action in United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania against EME Homer City Generation L.P. (“EME Homer City”), Homer City OL6 LLC, and other defendants regarding the operations of the Homer City Generating Station, an electricity generating facility.

 

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Homer City OL6 LLC, an entity owned by MLIC, is a passive investor with a noncontrolling interest in the electricity generating facility, which is solely operated by the lessee, EME Homer City. The complaint sought injunctive relief and assessment of civil penalties for alleged violations of the federal Clean Air Act and Pennsylvania’s State Implementation Plan. The alleged violations were the subject of Notices of Violations (“NOVs”) that the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) issued to EME Homer City, Homer City OL6 LLC, and others in June 2008 and May 2010. On January 7, 2011, the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania granted the motion by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the State of New York to intervene in the lawsuit as additional plaintiffs. On February 16, 2011, the State of New Jersey filed an Intervenor’s Complaint in the lawsuit. On October 12, 2011, the court issued an order dismissing the U.S.’s lawsuit with prejudice. The Government entities have appealed from the order granting defendants’ motion to dismiss. EME Homer City has acknowledged its obligation to indemnify Homer City OL6 LLC for any claims relating to the NOVs. Due to the acknowledged indemnification obligation, this matter is not included in the aggregate estimate of range of reasonably possible loss. In a February 13, 2012 letter to EME Homer City, Homer City OL6 LLC and others, the Sierra Club indicated its intent to sue for alleged violations of the Clean Air Act and to seek to enjoin the alleged violations, seek unspecified penalties and attorneys’ fees, and other relief. Homer City OL6 LLC has served a claim for indemnification on EME Homer City with respect to the February 13, 2012 letter.

In the Matter of Chemform, Inc. Site, Pompano Beach, Broward County, Florida. In July 2010, the EPA advised MLIC that it believed payments were due under two settlement agreements, known as “Administrative Orders on Consent,” that New England Mutual Life Insurance Company (“New England Mutual”) signed in 1989 and 1992 with respect to the cleanup of a Superfund site in Florida (the “Chemform Site”). The EPA originally contacted MLIC (as successor to New England Mutual) and a third party in 2001, and advised that they owed additional clean-up costs for the Chemform Site. The matter was not resolved at that time. The EPA is requesting payment of an amount under $1 million from MLIC and such third party for past costs and an additional amount for future environmental testing costs at the Chemform Site. In June 2012, the EPA, MLIC, and the third party executed an Administrative Order on Consent under which MLIC and the third party have agreed to be responsible for certain environmental testing at the Chemform site. The Company estimates that its costs for the environmental testing will not exceed $100,000. The June 2012 Administrative Order on Consent does not resolve the EPA’s claim for past clean-up costs. The EPA may seek additional costs if the environmental testing identifies issues. The Company estimates that the aggregate cost to resolve this matter will not exceed $1 million.

Metco Site, Hicksville, Nassau County, New York. On February 22, 2012, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation issued a notice to MLIC, as purported successor in interest to New England Mutual, that it is a potentially responsible party with respect to hazardous substances and hazardous waste located on a property that New England Mutual owned for a time in 1978. MLIC has responded to the Department of Environmental Conservation and asserted that it is not a potentially responsible party under the law.

Sales Practices Regulatory Matters. Regulatory authorities in a small number of states and FINRA, and occasionally the SEC, have had investigations or inquiries relating to sales of individual life insurance policies or annuities or other products by MLIC, MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut (“MICC”), New England Life Insurance Company and General American Life Insurance Company, and four Company broker-dealers, which are MetLife Securities, Inc., New England Securities Corporation, Walnut Street Securities, Inc. and Tower Square Securities, Inc. These investigations often focus on the conduct of particular financial services representatives and the sale of unregistered or unsuitable products or the misuse of client assets. Over the past several years, these and a number of investigations by other regulatory authorities were resolved for monetary payments and certain other relief, including restitution payments. The Company may continue to resolve investigations in a similar manner. The Company believes adequate provision has been made in its consolidated financial statements for all probable and reasonably estimable losses for these sales practices-related investigations or inquiries.

 

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Unclaimed Property Inquiries and Related Litigation

In April 2012, the Company reached agreements with representatives of the U.S. jurisdictions that were conducting audits of MetLife, Inc. and certain of its affiliates for compliance with unclaimed property laws, and with state insurance regulators directly involved in a multistate targeted market conduct examination relating to claim-payment practices and compliance with unclaimed property laws. The effectiveness of each agreement was conditioned upon the approval of a specified number of jurisdictions. In each case, the threshold for effectiveness has been reached. Pursuant to the agreements, the Company will, among other things, take specified action to identify liabilities under life insurance, annuity, and retained asset contracts, to adopt specified procedures for seeking to contact and pay owners of the identified liabilities, and, to the extent that it is unable to locate such owners, to escheat these amounts with interest at a specified rate to the appropriate states. Additionally, the Company has agreed to accelerate the final date of certain industrial life policies and to escheat unclaimed benefits of such policies. Pursuant to the agreement to resolve the market conduct examination, the Company made a $40 million multi-state examination payment to be allocated among the settling states. In the third quarter of 2011, the Company incurred a $117 million after tax charge to increase reserves in connection with the Company’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File and similar databases to identify potential life insurance claims that had not been presented to the Company. In the first quarter of 2012, the Company recorded a $52 million after tax charge for the multi-state examination payment and the expected acceleration of benefit payments to policyholders under the settlements. On September 20, 2012, the West Virginia Treasurer filed an action against MLIC in West Virginia state court (West Virginia ex rel. John D. Perdue v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, Circuit Court of Putnam County, Civil Action No. 12-C-295) alleging that the Company violated the West Virginia Uniform Unclaimed Property Act, seeking to compel compliance with the Act, and seeking payment of unclaimed property, interest, and penalties. At least one other jurisdiction is pursuing a similar market conduct examination concerning compliance with unclaimed property statutes. It is possible that other jurisdictions may pursue similar examinations, audits, or lawsuits and that such actions may result in additional payments to beneficiaries, additional escheatment of funds deemed abandoned under state laws, administrative penalties, interest, and/or further changes to the Company’s procedures. The Company is not currently able to estimate these additional possible costs.

Total Asset Recovery Services, LLC on behalf of the State of Illinois v. MetLife, Inc., et. al. (Cir. Ct. Cook County, IL, filed January 24, 2011). Alleging that MetLife, Inc. and another company have violated the Illinois Uniform Disposition of Unclaimed Property Act by failing to escheat to Illinois benefits of 4,766 life insurance contracts, Total Asset Recovery Services, LLC (“the Relator”) has brought an action under the Illinois False Claims Whistleblower Reward and Protection Act seeking to recover damages on behalf of Illinois. MetLife, Inc. and MLIC have moved to dismiss the action. On September 6, 2012, the court granted the Relator’s unopposed motion to dismiss all of its claims.

Total Asset Recovery Services, LLC on behalf of the State of Minnesota v. MetLife, Inc., et. al. (District Court, County of Hennepin, MN, filed January 31, 2011). Alleging that MetLife, Inc. and another company have violated the Minnesota Uniform Disposition of Unclaimed Property Act by failing to escheat to Minnesota benefits of 584 life insurance contracts, the Relator has brought an action under the Minnesota False Claims Act seeking to recover damages on behalf of Minnesota. Based on the allegations in the complaint, it appears that the Relator may have improperly named MetLife, Inc. as a defendant instead of MLIC. The action was sealed by court order until March 22, 2012. The Relator alleges that the aggregate damages, including statutory damages and treble damages, are $228 million. The Relator does not allocate this claimed damage amount between MetLife, Inc. and the other defendant. The Relator also bases its damage calculation in part on its assumption that the average face amount of the subject policies is $130,000. MetLife, Inc. strongly disputes this assumption, the Relator’s alleged damages amounts, and other allegations in the complaint. MetLife, Inc. and MLIC have moved to dismiss the action.

 

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City of Westland Police and Fire Retirement System v. MetLife, Inc., et. al. (S.D.N.Y., filed January 12, 2012). Seeking to represent a class of persons who purchased MetLife, Inc. common shares between February 2, 2010, and October 6, 2011, the plaintiff filed an action alleging that MetLife, Inc. and several current and former executive officers of MetLife, Inc. violated the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder by issuing, or causing MetLife, Inc. to issue, materially false and misleading statements concerning MetLife, Inc.’s potential liability for millions of dollars in insurance benefits that should have been paid to beneficiaries or escheated to the states. In May 2012, plaintiff amended the complaint to add defendants including members of the MetLife, Inc. Board of Directors and several other parties and to add claims for violations of the Securities Act of 1933. Plaintiff seeks unspecified compensatory damages and other relief. Defendants have moved to dismiss the action.

City of Birmingham Retirement and Relief System v. MetLife, Inc., et. al. (N.D. Alabama , filed in state court on July 5, 2012 and removed to federal court on August 3, 2012). Seeking to represent a class of persons who purchased MetLife, Inc. common equity units in or traceable to a public offering in March 2011, the plaintiff filed an action alleging that MetLife, Inc., certain current and former directors and executive officers of MetLife, Inc., and various underwriters violated several provisions of the Securities Act of 1933 related to the filing of the registration statement by issuing, or causing MetLife, Inc. to issue, materially false and misleading statements and/or omissions concerning MetLife, Inc.’s potential liability for millions of dollars in insurance benefits that should have been paid to beneficiaries or escheated to the states. Plaintiff seeks unspecified compensatory damages and other relief. Defendants removed this action to federal court, and plaintiff has moved to remand the action to state court. The defendants intend to defend this action vigorously.

Derivative Actions and Demands. Seeking to sue derivatively on behalf of MetLife, Inc., four shareholders have commenced separate actions against members of the MetLife, Inc. Board of Directors, alleging that they breached their fiduciary and other duties to the Company. The actions are Fishbaum v. Kandarian, et al. (Sup. Ct., New York County, filed January 27, 2012), Batchelder v. Burwell, et al. (Sup. Ct., New York County, filed March 6, 2012), Mallon v. Kandarian, et al. (S.D.N.Y., filed March 28, 2012), and Martino v. Kandarian, et al. (S.D.N.Y., filed April 19, 2012). The two federal court actions have been consolidated and have been stayed pending further order of the court. The two state court actions have been consolidated under the caption In re: MetLife Shareholder Derivative Action and an amended complaint has been filed. Plaintiffs in all four actions allege that the defendants failed to ensure that the Company complied with state unclaimed property laws and to ensure that the Company accurately reported its earnings. Plaintiffs allege that because of the defendants’ breaches of duty, MetLife, Inc. has incurred damage to its reputation and has suffered other unspecified damages. The defendants intend to defend these actions vigorously. A fifth shareholder, Western Pennsylvania Electrical Workers Pension Fund, has written to the MetLife, Inc. Board of Directors demanding that MetLife, Inc. take action against current and former Board members, executive officers, and MetLife, Inc.’s independent auditor, for similar alleged breaches of duty with respect to the Company’s compliance with unclaimed property laws and financial disclosures. The MetLife, Inc. Board of Directors has appointed a Special Committee to investigate these allegations. On September 24, 2012, counsel for the Special Committee apprised this shareholder’s counsel that the Board of Directors had reviewed the issues and rejected the demand.

Total Control Accounts Litigation and Regulatory Actions

MLIC is a defendant in a consolidated lawsuit related to its use of retained asset accounts, known as Total Control Accounts (“TCA”), as a settlement option for death benefits.

Keife, et al. v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (D. Nev., filed in state court on July 30, 2010 and removed to federal court on September 7, 2010); and Simon v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (D. Nev., filed November 3, 2011). These putative class action lawsuits, which have been consolidated, raise breach of

 

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contract claims arising from MLIC’s use of the TCA to pay life insurance benefits under the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (“FEGLI”) program. Specifically, plaintiffs allege that under the terms of the FEGLI policy, MLIC is required to make “immediate” payment of death benefits in “one sum.” MLIC, plaintiff alleges, breached this duty by instead retaining the death benefits in its general investment account and sending beneficiaries a “book of drafts” known as the “TCA Money Market Option” as the only means by which funds can be accessed. As damages, plaintiffs seek disgorgement of the difference between the interest paid to the account holders and the investment earnings on the assets backing the accounts. In September 2010, plaintiffs filed a motion for class certification of the breach of contract claim, which the court has stayed. On April 28, 2011, the court denied MLIC’s motion to dismiss. On May 4, 2012, MLIC moved for summary judgment.

Various state regulators have also taken actions with respect to retained asset accounts. The Department of Financial Services issued a circular letter on March 29, 2012 stating that an insurer should only use a retained asset account when a policyholder or beneficiary affirmatively chooses to receive life insurance proceeds through such an account and providing for certain disclosures to a beneficiary, including that payment by a single check is an option. In connection with an ongoing market conduct exam, MLIC has entered into a consent order with the Minnesota Department of Commerce regarding MLIC’s use of TCAs as a default option.

The Company is unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss arising from the TCA matters.

Other U.S. Litigation

Roberts, et al. v. Tishman Speyer Properties, et al. (Sup. Ct., N.Y. County, filed January 22, 2007). This lawsuit was filed by a putative class of market rate tenants at Stuyvesant Town and Peter Cooper Village against parties including Metropolitan Tower Life Insurance Company (“MTL”) and Metropolitan Insurance and Annuity Company. Metropolitan Insurance and Annuity Company has merged into MTL and no longer exists as a separate entity. These tenants claim that MTL, as former owner, and the current owner improperly deregulated apartments while receiving J-51 tax abatements. The lawsuit seeks declaratory relief and damages for rent overcharges. In October 2009, the New York State Court of Appeals issued an opinion denying MTL’s motion to dismiss the complaint. MTL has reached a settlement in principle, subject to finalizing the settlement terms and court approval. The Company believes adequate provision has been made in its consolidated financial statements for all probable and reasonably estimable losses for this lawsuit.

Merrill Haviland, et al. v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (E.D. Mich., removed to federal court on July 22, 2011). This lawsuit was filed by 45 retired General Motors (“GM”) employees against MLIC and the amended complaint includes claims for conversion, unjust enrichment, breach of contract, fraud, intentional infliction of emotional distress, fraudulent insurance acts, unfair trade practices, and Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) claims based upon GM’s 2009 reduction of the employees’ life insurance coverage under GM’s ERISA-governed plan. The complaint includes a count seeking class action status. MLIC is the insurer of GM’s group life insurance plan and administers claims under the plan. According to the complaint, MLIC had previously provided plaintiffs with a “written guarantee” that their life insurance benefits under the GM plan would not be reduced for the rest of their lives. On June 26, 2012, the district court granted MLIC’s motion to dismiss the complaint. Plaintiffs have appealed that decision to the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

McGuire v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (E.D. Mich., filed February 22, 2012). This lawsuit was filed by the fiduciary for the Union Carbide Employees’ Pension Plan and alleges that MLIC, which issued annuity contracts to fund some of the benefits the Plan provides, engaged in transactions that ERISA prohibits and violated duties under ERISA and federal common law by determining that no dividends were payable with respect to the contracts from and after 1999. On September 26, 2012, the court denied MLIC’s motion to dismiss the complaint. The Company is defending the action vigorously.

 

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Sales Practices Claims. Over the past several years, the Company has faced numerous claims, including class action lawsuits, alleging improper marketing or sales of individual life insurance policies, annuities, mutual funds or other products. Some of the current cases seek substantial damages, including punitive and treble damages and attorneys’ fees. The Company continues to vigorously defend against the claims in these matters. The Company believes adequate provision has been made in its consolidated financial statements for all probable and reasonably estimable losses for sales practices matters.

International Litigation

Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada v. Metropolitan Life Ins. Co. (Super. Ct., Ontario, October 2006). In 2006, Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (“Sun Life”), as successor to the purchaser of MLIC’s Canadian operations, filed this lawsuit in Toronto, seeking a declaration that MLIC remains liable for “market conduct claims” related to certain individual life insurance policies sold by MLIC and that have been transferred to Sun Life. Sun Life had asked that the court require MLIC to indemnify Sun Life for these claims pursuant to indemnity provisions in the sale agreement for the sale of MLIC’s Canadian operations entered into in June of 1998. In January 2010, the court found that Sun Life had given timely notice of its claim for indemnification but, because it found that Sun Life had not yet incurred an indemnifiable loss, granted MLIC’s motion for summary judgment. Both parties appealed. In September 2010, Sun Life notified MLIC that a purported class action lawsuit was filed against Sun Life in Toronto, Kang v. Sun Life Assurance Co. (Super. Ct., Ontario, September 2010), alleging sales practices claims regarding the same individual policies sold by MLIC and transferred to Sun Life. An amended class action complaint in that case was served on Sun Life, again without naming MLIC as a party. On August 30, 2011, Sun Life notified MLIC that a purported class action lawsuit was filed against Sun Life in Vancouver, Alamwala v. Sun Life Assurance Co. (Sup. Ct., British Columbia, August 2011), alleging sales practices claims regarding certain of the same policies sold by MLIC and transferred to Sun Life. Sun Life contends that MLIC is obligated to indemnify Sun Life for some or all of the claims in these lawsuits. The Company is unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss arising from this litigation.

Italy Fund Redemption Suspension Complaints and Litigation. As a result of suspension of withdrawals and diminution in value in certain funds offered within certain unit-linked policies sold by the Italian branch of Alico Life International, Ltd. (“ALIL”), a number of policyholders invested in those funds have either commenced or threatened litigation against ALIL, alleging misrepresentation, inadequate disclosures and other related claims. These policyholders contacted ALIL beginning in July 2009 alleging that the funds operated at variance to the published prospectus and that prospectus risk disclosures were allegedly wrong, unclear, and misleading. The limited number of lawsuits or complaints that have been filed to date have either been resolved or are proceeding. In March 2011, ALIL implemented a plan to resolve policyholder claims. Under the plan, ALIL provided liquidity to the suspended funds so that policyholders may withdraw investments in these funds, and ALIL offered policyholders amounts in addition to the liquidation value of the suspended funds based on the performance of other relevant financial products. The settlement program achieved a 97% acceptance rate. Those policyholders who did not accept the settlement may still pursue other remedies or commence individual litigation. Under the terms of the stock purchase agreement dated as of March 7, 2010, as amended, by and among MetLife, Inc., AIG and AM Holdings LLC, AIG agreed to indemnify MetLife, Inc. and its affiliates for third party claims and regulatory fines associated with ALIL’s suspended funds. Due to the acknowledged indemnification obligation, this matter is not included in the aggregate estimate of range of reasonably possible loss.

Summary

Putative or certified class action litigation and other litigation and claims and assessments against the Company, in addition to those discussed previously and those otherwise provided for in the Company’s consolidated financial statements, have arisen in the course of the Company’s business, including, but not limited

 

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to, in connection with its activities as an insurer, mortgage lending bank, employer, investor, investment advisor and taxpayer. Further, state insurance regulatory authorities and other federal and state authorities regularly make inquiries and conduct investigations concerning the Company’s compliance with applicable insurance and other laws and regulations.

It is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of all pending investigations and legal proceedings. In some of the matters referred to previously, very large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive and treble damages, are sought. Although in light of these considerations it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain cases could have a material effect upon the Company’s financial position, based on information currently known by the Company’s management, in its opinion, the outcomes of such pending investigations and legal proceedings are not likely to have such an effect. However, given the large and/or indeterminate amounts sought in certain of these matters and the inherent unpredictability of litigation, it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain matters could, from time to time, have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated net income or cash flows in particular quarterly or annual periods.

Commitments

Commitments to Fund Partnership Investments

The Company makes commitments to fund partnership investments in the normal course of business. The amounts of these unfunded commitments were $3.5 billion and $4.0 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The Company anticipates that these amounts will be invested in partnerships over the next five years.

Mortgage Loan Commitments

Prior to exiting the business of originating forward and reverse residential mortgage loans, in the ordinary course of business, the Company issued interest rate lock commitments on certain residential mortgage loan applications which totaled $5.6 billion at December 31, 2011. There were no outstanding interest rate lock commitments at September 30, 2012. The Company sells the originated residential mortgage loans. Interest rate lock commitments to fund mortgage loans that will be held-for-sale are considered derivatives and their estimated fair value and notional amounts are included within interest rate forwards. See Notes 2 and 4.

The Company also commits to lend funds under certain mortgage loan commitments that will be held-for-investment. The amounts of these mortgage loan commitments were $2.9 billion and $4.1 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

Commitments to Fund Bank Credit Facilities, Bridge Loans and Private Corporate Bond Investments

The Company commits to lend funds under bank credit facilities, bridge loans and private corporate bond investments. The amounts of these unfunded commitments were $1.5 billion and $1.4 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

Guarantees

In the normal course of its business, the Company has provided certain indemnities, guarantees and commitments to third parties pursuant to which it may be required to make payments now or in the future. In the context of acquisition, disposition, investment and other transactions, the Company has provided indemnities and guarantees, including those related to tax, environmental and other specific liabilities and other indemnities and guarantees that are triggered by, among other things, breaches of representations, warranties or covenants

 

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provided by the Company. In addition, in the normal course of business, the Company provides indemnifications to counterparties in contracts with triggers similar to the foregoing, as well as for certain other liabilities, such as third-party lawsuits. These obligations are often subject to time limitations that vary in duration, including contractual limitations and those that arise by operation of law, such as applicable statutes of limitation. In some cases, the maximum potential obligation under the indemnities and guarantees is subject to a contractual limitation ranging from less than $1 million to $800 million, with a cumulative maximum of $2.3 billion, while in other cases such limitations are not specified or applicable. Since certain of these obligations are not subject to limitations, the Company does not believe that it is possible to determine the maximum potential amount that could become due under these guarantees in the future. Management believes that it is unlikely the Company will have to make any material payments under these indemnities, guarantees, or commitments.

In addition, the Company indemnifies its directors and officers as provided in its charters and by-laws. Also, the Company indemnifies its agents for liabilities incurred as a result of their representation of the Company’s interests. Since these indemnities are generally not subject to limitation with respect to duration or amount, the Company does not believe that it is possible to determine the maximum potential amount that could become due under these indemnities in the future.

The Company has also guaranteed minimum investment returns on certain international retirement funds in accordance with local laws. Since these guarantees are not subject to limitation with respect to duration or amount, the Company does not believe that it is possible to determine the maximum potential amount that could become due under these guarantees in the future.

The Company’s recorded liabilities were $6 million and $5 million at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, for indemnities, guarantees and commitments.

13. Employee Benefit Plans

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans

Certain subsidiaries of MetLife, Inc. (the “Subsidiaries”) sponsor and/or administer various qualified and non-qualified defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement employee benefit plans covering employees and sales representatives who meet specified eligibility requirements. The Subsidiaries also provide certain postemployment benefits and certain postretirement medical and life insurance benefits for retired employees. The Subsidiaries have issued group annuity and life insurance contracts supporting approximately 99% of all U.S. pension and other postretirement benefit plan assets, which are invested primarily in separate accounts sponsored by the Subsidiaries.

Measurement dates used for all of the Subsidiaries’ defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans correspond with the fiscal year ends of sponsoring Subsidiaries, which are December 31 for most Subsidiaries and November 30 for American Life.

 

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The components of net periodic benefit costs were as follows:

 

     Pension Benefits      Other Postretirement Benefits  
     U.S. Plans     Non-U.S. Plans      U.S. Plans     Non-U.S. Plans  
     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Three Months
Ended
September 30,
     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Three Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011      2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (In millions)  

Service costs

   $ 56     $ 47     $ 19     $ 17      $ 5     $ 4     $      $   

Interest costs

     102       101       4       3        26       26       1       1  

Expected return on plan assets

     (121     (112     (1             (19     (19     (1       

Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses

     48       49                      15       11       1         

Amortization of prior service costs (credit)

     2       1                      (26     (27              
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net periodic benefit costs

   $ 87     $ 86     $ 22     $ 20      $ 1     $ (5   $ 1     $ 1  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

     Pension Benefits     Other Postretirement Benefits  
     U.S. Plans     Non-U.S. Plans     U.S. Plans     Non-U.S. Plans  
     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (In millions)  

Service costs

   $ 168     $ 141     $ 55     $ 49     $ 16     $ 12     $ 1     $ 1  

Interest costs

     305       303       13       11       77       79       2       2  

Expected return on plan assets

     (363     (336     (5     (3     (57     (57     (1     (1

Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses

     146       146                     43       32       1         

Amortization of prior service costs (credit)

     5       3                     (78     (81              
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net periodic benefit costs

   $ 261     $ 257     $ 63     $ 57     $ 1     $ (15   $ 3     $ 2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

As disclosed in Note 17 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report, no contributions are required to be made to the Subsidiaries’ U.S. qualified pension plans during 2012; however, during the third quarter of 2012, $405 million of discretionary contributions were made by the Subsidiaries to those plans.

14. Equity

Stock-Based Compensation Plans

Payout of 2009—2011 Performance Shares

Vested Performance Shares are multiplied by a performance factor of 0.0 to 2.0 based largely on MetLife, Inc.’s performance. For this purpose, MetLife, Inc.’s performance is determined in terms of (a) the change in annual net operating earnings and (b) total shareholder return, in each case, over the applicable three-year performance period compared to the performance of its competitors. Final Performance Shares are paid in shares of MetLife, Inc. common stock. The performance factor for the January 1, 2009 — December 31, 2011 performance period was 1.13. This factor has been applied to the 1,791,609 Performance Shares associated with that performance period that vested on December 31, 2011 and, as a result, 2,024,518 shares of MetLife, Inc.’s common stock (less withholding for taxes and other items, as applicable) were issued, aside from shares that payees chose to defer, during the second quarter of 2012.

 

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Payout of 2009—2011 Performance Units

Vested Performance Units are multiplied by a performance factor of 0.0 to 2.0 based largely on MetLife, Inc.’s performance. For this purpose, MetLife, Inc.’s performance is determined in terms of (a) the change in annual net operating earnings and (b) total shareholder return, in each case, over the applicable three-year performance period compared to the performance of its competitors. Final Performance Units which are payable in cash equal to the closing price of MetLife, Inc. common stock on a date following the last day of the three-year performance period. The performance factor for the January 1, 2009 — December 31, 2011 performance period was 1.13. This factor has been applied to the 51,144 Performance Units associated with that performance period that vested on December 31, 2011 and, as a result, the cash value of 57,793 units was paid during the second quarter of 2012.

Dividend Restrictions

The table below sets forth the dividends permitted to be paid by the respective insurance subsidiary without insurance regulatory approval and the respective dividends paid:

 

     2012  

Company

   Paid     Permitted w/o
Approval (1)
 
     (In millions)  

Metropolitan Life Insurance Company

   $ —       $ 1,350  

American Life Insurance Company

   $   1,000  (2)    $ 168  

MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut

   $ 202  (3)    $ 504  

Metropolitan Tower Life Insurance Company

   $ —       $ 82  

MetLife Investors Insurance Company

   $ —       $ 18  

Delaware American Life Insurance Company

   $ —       $ 12  

 

 

(1)

Reflects dividend amounts that may be paid during 2012 without prior regulatory approval. However, because dividend tests may be based on dividends previously paid over rolling 12-month periods, if paid before a specified date during 2012, some or all of such dividends may require regulatory approval. No available amounts were paid by the above subsidiaries to MetLife, Inc. during the nine months ended September 30, 2012, except as described for American Life and MICC.

 

(2)

During May 2012, American Life received regulatory approval to pay an extraordinary dividend for an amount up to the funds remitted in connection with the Company’s restructuring of American Life’s business in Japan. The dividend may be paid in installments by November 30, 2012. Subsequently, $1.5 billion was remitted to American Life. See Note 2. Of this approved amount, $1.0 billion was paid to MetLife, Inc. as an extraordinary dividend, during May 2012, which included the $168 million otherwise permitted to be paid without approval later in 2012, due to the timing of such dividend.

 

(3)

During June 2012, MICC distributed shares of an affiliate to MetLife, Inc. as an in-kind extraordinary dividend of $202 million as calculated on a statutory basis. Regulatory approval for this extraordinary dividend was obtained due to the timing of payment. Remaining dividends permitted to be paid in 2012 without regulatory approval total $302 million.

In January 2012, the Company submitted to the Federal Reserve Board and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (collectively, the “Federal Reserve”) a comprehensive capital plan, as mandated by the capital plans rule, and additional information required by the 2012 Comprehensive Capital Analysis and Review (“CCAR”). The capital plan included an anticipated repurchase of common stock and an anticipated increase to MetLife,

 

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Inc.’s annual dividend to its stockholders. The Federal Reserve objected to the capital plan in March of 2012; therefore, MetLife, Inc. is unable to repurchase its common stock or increase its aggregate annual dividend amount above $0.74 per share, or $0.8 billion based on the outstanding shares at September 30, 2012, until such time as the Company is no longer subject to the capital plans rule and supervision by the Federal Reserve, or submits a capital plan that is approved by the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve, pursuant to the Company’s request, has extended the time for the Company to resubmit its capital plan until January 5, 2013. Unless the Company receives an extension, it may also need to submit a capital plan for 2013 if MetLife, Inc. is still a bank holding company on January 5, 2013. See Note 18 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for additional information on dividend restrictions.

15. Other Expenses

Information on other expenses was as follows:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (In millions)  

Compensation

   $ 1,307     $ 1,326     $ 4,196     $ 3,982  

Pension, postretirement and postemployment benefit costs

     117       99       345       289  

Commissions

     1,442       1,771       4,466       4,774  

Volume-related costs

     154       109       402       283  

Interest credited to bank deposits

     19       26       60       72  

Capitalization of DAC

     (1,302     (1,527     (3,981     (4,158

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     1,008       1,718       3,201       3,911  

Amortization of negative VOBA

     (170     (170     (506     (536

Interest expense on debt and debt issuance costs

     326       425       1,026       1,260  

Premium taxes, licenses and fees

     176       206       519       483  

Professional services

     432       336       1,210       1,019  

Rent, net of sublease income

     107       99       339       319  

Other

     629       780       2,064       2,289  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other expenses

   $ 4,245     $ 5,198     $ 13,341     $ 13,987  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capitalization of DAC and Amortization of DAC and VOBA

See Note 6 for DAC and VOBA by segment and a rollforward of each including impacts of capitalization and amortization. See also Note 9 for a description of the DAC amortization impact associated with the closed block. See Note 1 for information on the retrospective application of the adoption of new accounting guidance related to DAC.

Costs Related to the Acquisition of ALICO

Integration-Related Expenses

Integration-related costs were $95 million and $239 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $84 million and $254 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. Integration-related costs represent costs directly related to integrating American Life and Delaware American Life Insurance Company (collectively, “ALICO”), including expenses for consulting, rebranding and the integration of information systems. Such costs have been expensed as incurred and as the integration of ALICO is an enterprise-wide initiative, these expenses are reported within Corporate & Other.

 

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Restructuring Charges

As part of the integration of ALICO’s operations, management initiated restructuring plans focused on increasing productivity and improving the efficiency of the Company’s operations. The restructuring program has been finalized and the remaining payments associated with the aforementioned restructuring program are expected to be completed by March 31, 2013. Estimated restructuring charges may change as management continues to execute its restructuring plans. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report.

Restructuring charges associated with restructuring plans related to the acquisition of ALICO are included in other expenses within Corporate & Other. Such restructuring charges included:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (In millions)  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 8     $ 9     $ 13     $ 10  

Restructuring charges

     1       7       10       31  

Cash payments

     (3     (7     (17     (32
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 6     $ 9     $ 6     $ 9  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Restructuring charges incurred in current period

   $ 1     $ 7     $ 10     $ 31  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total restructuring charges incurred since inception of restructuring plans

   $ 66     $ 41     $ 66     $ 41  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other Restructuring Charges

The Company has commenced an enterprise-wide strategic initiative. This global strategy focuses on leveraging the Company’s scale to improve the value it provides to customers and shareholders in order to reduce costs, enhance revenues, achieve efficiencies and reinvest in its technology, platforms and functionality to improve its current operations and develop new capabilities.

These restructuring charges are included in other expenses. As the expenses relate to an enterprise-wide initiative, they are reported within Corporate & Other. Estimated restructuring costs may change as management continues to execute this enterprise-wide strategic initiative. Such restructuring charges were as follows:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2012  
     (In millions)  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 21     $   

Restructuring charges

     54       101  

Cash payments

     (40     (66
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 35     $ 35  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Restructuring charges incurred in current period

   $ 54     $ 101  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total restructuring charges incurred since inception of initiative

   $ 101     $ 101  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Management anticipates further restructuring charges including severance, lease and asset impairments, through the year ending December 31, 2014. However, such restructuring plans were not sufficiently developed to enable management to make an estimate of such restructuring charges at September 30, 2012.

 

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16. Earnings Per Common Share

The following table presents the weighted average shares used in calculating basic earnings per common share and those used in calculating diluted earnings per common share for each income category presented below:

 

    Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
    2012     2011     2012     2011  
    (In millions, except share and per share data)  

Weighted Average Shares:

       

Weighted average common stock outstanding for basic earnings
per common share

    1,065,041,874       1,060,199,513       1,063,991,836       1,059,253,798  

Incremental common shares from assumed:

       

Stock purchase contracts underlying common equity units (1)

                         2,188,593  

Exercise or issuance of stock-based awards (2)

           6,001,186       5,963,399       7,221,794  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Weighted average common stock outstanding for diluted earnings per common share

    1,065,041,874       1,066,200,699       1,069,955,235       1,068,664,185  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations:

       

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

  $ (957   $ 3,442     $ 1,209     $ 5,428  

Less:

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, attributable to noncontrolling interests

    (3     (6     29       (6

Less:

 

Preferred stock dividends

    30       30       91       91  
 

Preferred stock redemption premium

                         146  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders

  $ (984   $ 3,418     $ 1,089     $ 5,197  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Basic

  $ (0.92   $ 3.22     $ 1.02     $ 4.91  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Diluted

  $ (0.92   $ 3.20     $ 1.01     $ 4.86  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations:

       

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax

  $      $ 8     $ 17     $ (1

Less: Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax, attributable to noncontrolling interests

                           
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax, available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders

  $      $ 8     $ 17     $ (1
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Basic

  $      $ 0.01     $ 0.02     $   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Diluted

  $      $ 0.01     $ 0.02     $   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Income (Loss):

       

Net income (loss)

  $ (957   $ 3,450     $ 1,226     $ 5,427  

Less:

 

Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

    (3     (6     29       (6

Less:

 

Preferred stock dividends

    30       30       91       91  
 

Preferred stock redemption premium

                         146  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders

  $ (984   $ 3,426     $ 1,106     $ 5,196  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Basic

  $ (0.92   $ 3.23     $ 1.04     $ 4.91  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Diluted

  $ (0.92   $ 3.21     $ 1.03     $ 4.86  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

See Note 14 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for a description of the Company’s common equity units. For the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, and for the three months ended September 30, 2011, all shares related to the assumed

 

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issuance of shares in settlement of the applicable purchase contracts have been excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per common share as these assumed shares are anti-dilutive.

 

(2)

For the three months ended September 30, 2012, 5,928,114 shares related to the assumed exercise or issuance of stock-based awards have been excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per common share, as to include such assumed shares would be anti-dilutive.

17. Segment Information

As announced in November 2011, the Company reorganized its business from its former U.S. Business and International structure into three broad geographic regions to better reflect its global reach. As a result, in the first quarter of 2012, the Company reorganized into six segments, reflecting these broad geographic regions: Retail; Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits; Corporate Benefit Funding; and Latin America (collectively, “The Americas”); Asia; and EMEA. As anticipated, in the third quarter of 2012, the Company continued to realign certain products and businesses among its existing segments as noted below. Prior period results have been revised in connection with these changes.

The Americas. The Americas consists of the following segments:

 

   

    Retail. The Retail segment offers a broad range of protection products and services and a variety of annuities to individuals and employees of corporations and other institutions, and is organized into two businesses: Life & Other and Annuities. Life & Other insurance products and services include variable life, universal life, term life and whole life products. Additionally, through broker-dealer affiliates, the Company offers a full range of mutual funds and other securities products. Life & Other products and services also include individual disability income products and personal lines property & casualty insurance, including private passenger automobile, homeowners and personal excess liability insurance. Annuities include a variety of variable and fixed annuities which provide for both asset accumulation and asset distribution needs.

 

   

    Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits. The Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment offers a broad range of protection products and services to individuals and corporations, as well as other institutions and their respective employees, and is organized into two businesses: Group and Voluntary & Worksite. Group insurance products and services include variable life, universal life and term life products. Group insurance products and services also include dental, group short- and long-term disability and accidental death & dismemberment coverages. The Voluntary & Worksite business includes personal lines property & casualty insurance, including private passenger automobile, homeowners and personal excess liability insurance offered to employees on a voluntary basis. The Voluntary & Worksite business also includes long-term care, prepaid legal plans and critical illness products.

 

   

    Corporate Benefit Funding. The Corporate Benefit Funding segment offers a broad range of annuity and investment products, including guaranteed interest products and other stable value products, income annuities, and separate account contracts for the investment management of defined benefit and defined contribution plan assets. This segment also includes certain products to fund postretirement benefits and company-, bank- or trust-owned life insurance used to finance non-qualified benefit programs for executives.

 

   

    Latin America. The Latin America segment offers a broad range of products to both individuals and corporations, as well as other institutions and their respective employees, which include life insurance, accident and health insurance, group medical, dental, credit life insurance, annuities, endowment and retirement & savings products.

 

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Asia. The Asia segment offers a broad range of products to both individuals and corporations, as well as other institutions and their respective employees, which include whole life, term life, variable life, universal life, accident and health insurance, fixed and variable annuities and endowment products.

EMEA. The EMEA segment offers a broad range of products to both individuals and corporations, as well as other institutions and their respective employees, which include life insurance, accident and health insurance, credit life insurance, annuities, endowment and retirement & savings products.

In addition, the Company reports certain of its results of operations in Corporate & Other, which includes MetLife Bank (see Note 2) and other business activities. Corporate & Other contains the excess capital not allocated to the segments, external integration costs, internal resource costs for associates committed to acquisitions and various start-up and certain run-off entities. Corporate & Other also includes assumed reinsurance of certain variable annuity products from the Company’s former operating joint venture in Japan. This in-force reinsurance agreement reinsures living and death benefit guarantees issued in connection with variable annuity products. Additionally, Corporate & Other includes interest expense related to the majority of the Company’s outstanding debt, expenses associated with certain legal proceedings and income tax audit issues. Corporate & Other also includes the elimination of intersegment amounts, which generally relate to intersegment loans, which bear interest rates commensurate with related borrowings.

As discussed above, in the third quarter of 2012, as anticipated as part of the November 2011 reorganization, management realigned certain individual disability income and property & casualty products and began reporting such product results in the Retail segment. As a result of the first quarter segment reorganization, these results had been reported in the Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment. In accordance with the third quarter 2012 realignment, prior period operating earnings for the Retail segment increased by $14 million, net of $6 million of income tax benefit, and $17 million, net of $29 million of income tax benefit, with a corresponding decrease in the Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

Also, as anticipated as part of the November 2011 reorganization, in the third quarter of 2012, management realigned the businesses in South Asia and India and began reporting such results in the Asia segment. As a result of the first quarter segment reorganization, these results had been reported in the EMEA segment. In accordance with the third quarter 2012 realignment, prior period operating earnings for the Asia segment increased by $0, net of $2 million of income tax, and $4 million, net of $5 million of income tax, with a corresponding decrease in the EMEA segment, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

Operating earnings is the measure of segment profit or loss the Company uses to evaluate segment performance and allocate resources. Consistent with GAAP accounting guidance for segment reporting, operating earnings is the Company’s measure of segment performance and is reported below. Operating earnings should not be viewed as a substitute for GAAP income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax. The Company believes the presentation of operating earnings as the Company measures it for management purposes enhances the understanding of its performance by highlighting the results of operations and the underlying profitability drivers of the business.

Operating earnings is defined as operating revenues less operating expenses, both net of income tax.

Operating revenues and operating expenses exclude results of discontinued operations and other businesses that have been or will be sold or exited by MetLife, Inc. (“Divested Businesses”). Operating revenues also excludes net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses). Operating expenses also excludes goodwill impairments.

 

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The following additional adjustments are made to GAAP revenues, in the line items indicated, in calculating operating revenues:

 

   

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees excludes the amortization of unearned revenue related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses) and certain variable annuity GMIB fees (“GMIB Fees”);

 

   

Net investment income: (i) includes amounts for scheduled periodic settlement payments and amortization of premium on derivatives that are hedges of investments but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment, (ii) includes income from discontinued real estate operations, (iii) excludes post-tax operating earnings adjustments relating to insurance joint ventures accounted for under the equity method, (iv) excludes certain amounts related to contractholder-directed unit-linked investments, and (v) excludes certain amounts related to securitization entities that are VIEs consolidated under GAAP; and

 

   

Other revenues are adjusted for settlements of foreign currency earnings hedges.

The following additional adjustments are made to GAAP expenses, in the line items indicated, in calculating operating expenses:

 

   

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends excludes: (i) changes in the policyholder dividend obligation related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), (ii) inflation-indexed benefit adjustments associated with contracts backed by inflation-indexed investments and amounts associated with periodic crediting rate adjustments based on the total return of a contractually referenced pool of assets, (iii) benefits and hedging costs related to GMIBs (“GMIB Costs”), and (iv) market value adjustments associated with surrenders or terminations of contracts (“Market Value Adjustments”);

 

   

Interest credited to policyholder account balances includes adjustments for scheduled periodic settlement payments and amortization of premium on derivatives that are hedges of PABs but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment and excludes amounts related to net investment income earned on contractholder-directed unit-linked investments;

 

   

Amortization of DAC and VOBA excludes amounts related to: (i) net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), (ii) GMIB Fees and GMIB Costs, and (iii) Market Value Adjustments;

 

   

Amortization of negative VOBA excludes amounts related to Market Value Adjustments;

 

   

Interest expense on debt excludes certain amounts related to securitization entities that are VIEs consolidated under GAAP; and

 

   

Other expenses excludes costs related to: (i) noncontrolling interests, (ii) implementation of new insurance regulatory requirements, and (iii) acquisition and integration costs.

In 2011, management modified its definition of operating earnings to exclude the impacts of the Divested Businesses, which includes certain operations of MetLife Bank and the Caribbean Business, as these results are not relevant to understanding the Company’s ongoing operating results. In the third quarter of 2012, MetLife, Inc. began reporting additional MetLife Bank operations as Divested Businesses. See Note 2. Consequently, prior period results for Corporate & Other have decreased by $41 million, net of $25 million of income tax, and $44 million, net of $27 million of income tax, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. Also, prior period results for Latin America have decreased by $3 million, net of $2 million of

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

income tax, and $10 million, net of $5 million of income tax, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. As a result of the modified definition, prior period consolidated operating earnings have decreased by $44 million, net of $27 million of income tax, and $54 million, net of $32 million of income tax, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

Set forth in the tables below is certain financial information with respect to the Company’s segments, as well as Corporate & Other, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011. The segment accounting policies are the same as those used to prepare the Company’s consolidated financial statements, except for operating earnings adjustments as defined above. In addition, segment accounting policies include the method of capital allocation described below.

Economic capital is an internally developed risk capital model, the purpose of which is to measure the risk in the business and to provide a basis upon which capital is deployed. The economic capital model accounts for the unique and specific nature of the risks inherent in the Company’s business.

The Company’s economic capital model aligns segment allocated equity with emerging standards and consistent risk principles. Segment net investment income is credited or charged based on the level of allocated equity; however, changes in allocated equity do not impact the Company’s consolidated net investment income, operating earnings or income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax.

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

 

    Operating Earnings              
    The Americas                                      

Three Months Ended September 30, 2012

  Retail     Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
    Corporate
Benefit
Funding
    Latin
America
    Total     Asia     EMEA     Corporate
& Other
    Total     Adjustments     Total
Consolidated
 
    (In millions)  

Revenues

                     

Premiums

  $ 1,604     $ 3,753     $ 450     $ 610     $ 6,417     $ 2,112     $ 536     $ 15     $ 9,080     $ 16     $ 9,096  

Universal life and investment-type product
policy fees

    1,132       166       53       189       1,540       388       82       38       2,048       83       2,131  

Net investment income

    1,930       450       1,421       299       4,100       709       122       117       5,048       469       5,517  

Other revenues

    221       100       64       3       388       4       35       8       435       20       455  

Net investment gains (losses)

                                                                   22       22  

Net derivative gains (losses)

                                                                   (718     (718
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenues

    4,887       4,469       1,988       1,101       12,445       3,213       775       178       16,611       (108     16,503  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Expenses

                     

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

    2,228       3,449       1,070       507       7,254       1,455       255       31       8,995       303       9,298  

Interest credited to policyholder account
balances

    598       42       339       99       1,078       468       32       11       1,589       513       2,102  

Goodwill impairment

                                                                   1,868       1,868  

Capitalization of DAC

    (430     (38     (13     (83     (564     (579     (158            (1,301     (1     (1,302

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

    438       40       4       42       524       396       130       1       1,051       (43     1,008  

Amortization of negative VOBA

                         (1     (1     (128     (26            (155     (15     (170

Interest expense on debt

           1       2       (4     (1            2       285       286       40       326  

Other expenses

    1,308       547       120       353       2,328       1,206       440       146       4,120       263       4,383  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

    4,142       4,041       1,522       913       10,618       2,818       675       474       14,585       2,928       17,513  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

    253       145       163       36       597       136       38       (192     579       (632     (53
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

 

Operating earnings

  $ 492     $ 283     $ 303     $ 152     $ 1,230     $ 259     $ 62     $ (104     1,447      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

       

Adjustments to:

                     

Total revenues

  

    (108    

Total expenses

  

    (2,928    

Provision for income tax (expense) benefit

  

    632      
                 

 

 

     

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

  

  $ (957     $ (957
                 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Operating Earnings              
    The Americas                                      

Three Months Ended September 30, 2011

  Retail     Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
    Corporate
Benefit
Funding
    Latin
America
    Total     Asia     EMEA     Corporate
& Other
    Total     Adjustments     Total
Consolidated
 
    (In millions)  

Revenues

                     

Premiums

  $ 1,770     $ 3,431     $ 835     $ 672     $ 6,708     $ 1,967     $ 630     $ 14     $ 9,319     $ 23     $ 9,342  

Universal life and investment-type product
policy fees

    1,027       159       69       188       1,443       357       67       39       1,906       92       1,998  

Net investment income

    1,842       448       1,375       289       3,954       643       151       213       4,961       (709     4,252  

Other revenues

    204       97       61       8       370       8       29       11       418       302       720  

Net investment gains (losses)

                                                                   (55     (55

Net derivative gains (losses)

                                                                   4,196       4,196  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenues

    4,843       4,135       2,340       1,157       12,475       2,975       877       277       16,604       3,849       20,453  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Expenses

                     

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

    2,523       3,319       1,459       576       7,877       1,325       341       61       9,604       (202     9,402  

Interest credited to policyholder account
balances

    617       46       327       95       1,085       414       35              1,534       (796     738  

Goodwill impairment

                                                                            

Capitalization of DAC

    (660     (47     (6     (78     (791     (576     (157            (1,524     (3     (1,527

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

    521       43       4       45       613       407       142              1,162       556       1,718  

Amortization of negative VOBA

                                       (137     (13            (150     (20     (170

Interest expense on debt

                  2              2                     325       327       98       425  

Other expenses

    1,527       547       136       333       2,543       1,213       423       153       4,332       420       4,752  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

    4,528       3,908       1,922       971       11,329       2,646       771       539       15,285       53       15,338  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

    101       74       146       45       366       107       41       (190     324       1,349       1,673  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

 

Operating earnings

  $ 214     $ 153     $ 272     $ 141     $ 780     $ 222     $ 65     $ (72     995      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

       

Adjustments to:

                     

Total revenues

  

    3,849      

Total expenses

  

    (53    

Provision for income tax (expense) benefit

  

    (1,349    
                 

 

 

     

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

  

  $ 3,442       $ 3,442  
                 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Operating Earnings              
    The Americas                                      

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012

  Retail     Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
    Corporate
Benefit
Funding
    Latin
America
    Total     Asia     EMEA     Corporate
& Other
    Total     Adjustments     Total
Consolidated
 
    (In millions)  

Revenues

                     

Premiums

  $ 4,804     $ 11,021     $ 1,480     $ 1,948     $ 19,253     $ 6,215     $ 1,815     $ 43     $ 27,326     $ 60     $ 27,386  

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

    3,365       497       161       581       4,604       1,102       233       117       6,056       250       6,306  

Net investment income

    5,735       1,325       4,253       881       12,194       2,150       406       547       15,297       1,139       16,436  

Other revenues

    647       320       193       11       1,171       17       98       27       1,313       132       1,445  

Net investment gains (losses)

                                                                   (152     (152

Net derivative gains (losses)

                                                                   (604     (604
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenues

    14,551       13,163       6,087       3,421       37,222       9,484       2,552       734       49,992       825       50,817  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Expenses

                     

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

    6,668       10,153       3,293       1,667       21,781       4,250       941       94       27,066       942       28,008  

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

    1,784       127       1,016       289       3,216       1,323       91       23       4,653       1,028       5,681  

Goodwill impairment

                                                                   1,868       1,868  

Capitalization of DAC

    (1,352     (102     (28     (238     (1,720     (1,721     (535            (3,976     (5     (3,981

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

    1,319       98       18       151       1,586       1,188       456       1       3,231       (30     3,201  

Amortization of negative VOBA

                         (4     (4     (387     (65            (456     (50     (506

Interest expense on debt

           1       6       (3     4       5       3       886       898       128       1,026  

Other expenses

    4,060       1,692       368       1,002       7,122       3,550       1,333       409       12,414       1,187       13,601  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

    12,479       11,969       4,673       2,864       31,985       8,208       2,224       1,413       43,830       5,068       48,898  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)    

    703       401       495       122       1,721       437       116       (516     1,758       (1,048     710  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

 

Operating earnings

  $ 1,369     $ 793     $ 919     $ 435     $ 3,516     $ 839     $ 212     $ (163     4,404      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

       

Adjustments to:

                     

Total revenues

  

    825      

Total expenses

  

    (5,068    

Provision for income tax (expense) benefit

  

    1,048      
                 

 

 

     

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

  

  $ 1,209       $ 1,209  
                 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

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Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

    Operating Earnings              
    The Americas                                      

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011

  Retail     Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
    Corporate
Benefit
Funding
    Latin
America
    Total     Asia     EMEA     Corporate
& Other
    Total     Adjustments     Total
Consolidated
 
    (In millions)  

Revenues

                     

Premiums

  $ 4,907     $ 10,458     $ 2,132     $ 1,913     $ 19,410     $ 5,774     $ 1,896     $ 41     $ 27,121     $ 69     $ 27,190  

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

    3,050       473       181       571       4,275       1,020       236       115       5,646       210       5,856  

Net investment income

    5,585       1,330       4,169       727       11,811       1,799       455       681       14,746       (88     14,658  

Other revenues

    583       287       182       14       1,066       28       84       54       1,232       646       1,878  

Net investment gains (losses)

                                                                   (309     (309

Net derivative gains (losses)

                                                                   4,233       4,233  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenues

    14,125       12,548       6,664       3,225       36,562       8,621       2,671       891       48,745       4,761       53,506  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Expenses

                     

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

    7,013       9,803       3,925       1,534       22,275       3,931       1,008       101       27,315       191       27,506  

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

    1,803       134       993       280       3,210       1,193       118              4,521       (417     4,104  

Goodwill impairment

                                                                            

Capitalization of DAC

    (1,728     (144     (23     (231     (2,126     (1,530     (495            (4,151     (7     (4,158

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

    1,363       140       14       154       1,671       1,163       461              3,295       616       3,911  

Amortization of negative VOBA

                         (4     (4     (426     (46            (476     (60     (536

Interest expense on debt

                  7       1       8              1       969       978       282       1,260  

Other expenses

    4,340       1,639       384       981       7,344       3,371       1,290       358       12,363       1,147       13,510  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

    12,791       11,572       5,300       2,715       32,378       7,702       2,337       1,428       43,845       1,752       45,597  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)    

    443       325       478       119       1,365       298       130       (417     1,376       1,105       2,481  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

 

Operating earnings

  $ 891     $ 651     $ 886     $ 391     $ 2,819     $ 621     $ 204     $ (120     3,524      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

       

Adjustments to:

                     

Total revenues

  

    4,761      

Total expenses

  

    (1,752    

Provision for income tax (expense) benefit

  

    (1,105    
                 

 

 

     

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

  

  $ 5,428       $ 5,428  
                 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

The following table presents total assets with respect to the Company’s segments, as well as Corporate & Other, at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

Retail

   $ 325,294      $ 301,591  

Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits

     44,834        45,197  

Corporate Benefit Funding

     222,963        195,217  

Latin America

     22,990        20,315  

Asia

     130,772        115,806  

EMEA

     22,927        30,040  

Corporate & Other

     76,505        88,060  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 846,285      $ 796,226  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net investment income is based upon the actual results of each segment’s specifically identifiable asset portfolio adjusted for allocated equity. Other costs are allocated to each of the segments based upon: (i) a review of the nature of such costs; (ii) time studies analyzing the amount of employee compensation costs incurred by each segment; and (iii) cost estimates included in the Company’s product pricing.

18. Discontinued Operations

Real Estate

The Company actively manages its real estate portfolio with the objective of maximizing earnings through selective acquisitions and dispositions. Income related to real estate classified as held-for-sale or sold is presented in discontinued operations. These assets are carried at the lower of depreciated cost or estimated fair value less expected disposition costs. Income from discontinued real estate operations, net of income tax, was $0 and $17 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $19 million and $70 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

The carrying value of real estate related to discontinued operations was $12 million and $123 million at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

Operations

During the first quarter of 2011, the Company entered into a definitive agreement to sell its wholly-owned subsidiary, MetLife Taiwan Insurance Company Limited (“MetLife Taiwan”), to a third party, and the sale occurred in November 2011. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report. The following table presents the amounts related to the operations of MetLife Taiwan that

 

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MetLife, Inc.

Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (Continued)

 

have been reflected as discontinued operations in the interim condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30, 2011
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30, 2011
 
     (In millions)  

Total revenues

   $ 101     $ 337  

Total expenses

     115       329  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) before provision for income tax

     (14     8  

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     (3     5  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from operations of discontinued operations, net of income tax

     (11     3  

Net investment gain (loss), net of income tax

            (74
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax

   $ (11   $ (71
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

19. Subsequent Events

Remarketing of Senior Debt Securities and Settlement of Stock Purchase Contracts

In October 2012, MetLife, Inc. closed the successful remarketing of the Series C portion of the senior debt securities underlying the common equity units. The Series C senior debt securities were remarketed as 1.756% Series C senior debt securities Tranche 1 and 3.048% Series C senior debt securities Tranche 2, due December 2017 and 2022, respectively. MetLife, Inc. did not receive any proceeds from the remarketing. Common equity unit holders used the remarketing proceeds to settle their payment obligations under the applicable stock purchase contract. The subsequent settlement of the stock purchase contracts occurred in October 2012, providing proceeds to MetLife, Inc. of $1.0 billion in exchange for shares of MetLife, Inc.’s common stock. MetLife, Inc. delivered 28,231,956 shares of its newly issued common stock to settle the stock purchase contracts. See Note 14 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for additional information.

Common Stock Dividend

In October 2012, the Company’s Board of Directors approved an annual dividend for 2012 of $0.74 per common share payable on December 14, 2012 to stockholders of record as of November 9, 2012. The Company estimates the aggregate dividend payment to be $812 million.

Hurricane Sandy

On October 29, 2012, Hurricane Sandy made landfall in the United States causing loss of lives and extensive property damage. Because of the limited information available, the Company is currently unable to reasonably estimate the impact of the hurricane on its property & casualty insurance operations or other businesses.

 

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Item 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

For purposes of this discussion, “MetLife,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to MetLife, Inc., a Delaware corporation incorporated in 1999, its subsidiaries and affiliates. Following this summary is a discussion addressing the consolidated results of operations and financial condition of the Company for the periods indicated. This discussion should be read in conjunction with MetLife, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, as revised by MetLife, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on May 23, 2012 (as revised, the “2011 Annual Report”), the forward-looking statement information included below, the “Risk Factors” set forth in Part II, Item 1A, and the additional risk factors referred to therein, and the Company’s interim condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere herein.

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations may contain or incorporate by reference information that includes or is based upon forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements give expectations or forecasts of future events. These statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe” and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, prospective services or products, future performance or results of current and anticipated services or products, sales efforts, expenses, the outcome of contingencies such as legal proceedings, trends in operations and financial results. Any or all forward-looking statements may turn out to be wrong. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. See “Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”

The following discussion includes references to our performance measures, operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders, that are not based on accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Operating earnings is the measure of segment profit or loss we use to evaluate segment performance and allocate resources. Consistent with GAAP accounting guidance for segment reporting, operating earnings is our measure of segment performance. Operating earnings is also a measure by which senior management’s and many other employees’ performance is evaluated for the purposes of determining their compensation under applicable compensation plans.

Operating earnings is defined as operating revenues less operating expenses, both net of income tax. Operating earnings available to common shareholders is defined as operating earnings less preferred stock dividends.

Operating revenues and operating expenses exclude results of discontinued operations and other businesses that have been or will be sold or exited by MetLife, Inc. (“Divested Businesses”). Operating revenues also excludes net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses). Operating expenses also excludes goodwill impairments.

The following additional adjustments are made to GAAP revenues, in the line items indicated, in calculating operating revenues:

 

   

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees excludes the amortization of unearned revenue related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses) and certain variable annuity guaranteed minimum income benefits (“GMIB”) fees (“GMIB Fees”);

 

   

Net investment income: (i) includes amounts for scheduled periodic settlement payments and amortization of premium on derivatives that are hedges of investments but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment, (ii) includes income from discontinued real estate operations, (iii) excludes post-tax operating earnings adjustments relating to insurance joint ventures accounted for under the equity method, (iv) excludes certain amounts related to contractholder-directed unit-linked investments, and (v) excludes certain amounts related to securitization entities that are variable interest entities (“VIEs”) consolidated under GAAP; and

 

   

Other revenues are adjusted for settlements of foreign currency earnings hedges.

 

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The following additional adjustments are made to GAAP expenses, in the line items indicated, in calculating operating expenses:

 

   

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends excludes: (i) changes in the policyholder dividend obligation related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), (ii) inflation-indexed benefit adjustments associated with contracts backed by inflation-indexed investments and amounts associated with periodic crediting rate adjustments based on the total return of a contractually referenced pool of assets, (iii) benefits and hedging costs related to GMIBs (“GMIB Costs”), and (iv) market value adjustments associated with surrenders or terminations of contracts (“Market Value Adjustments”);

 

   

Interest credited to policyholder account balances includes adjustments for scheduled periodic settlement payments and amortization of premium on derivatives that are hedges of policyholder account balances (“PABs”) but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment and excludes amounts related to net investment income earned on contractholder-directed unit-linked investments;

 

   

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”) and value of business acquired (“VOBA”) excludes amounts related to: (i) net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), (ii) GMIB Fees and GMIB Costs, and (iii) Market Value Adjustments;

 

   

Amortization of negative VOBA excludes amounts related to Market Value Adjustments;

 

   

Interest expense on debt excludes certain amounts related to securitization entities that are VIEs consolidated under GAAP; and

 

   

Other expenses excludes costs related to: (i) noncontrolling interests, (ii) implementation of new insurance regulatory requirements, and (iii) acquisition and integration costs.

We believe the presentation of operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders as we measure it for management purposes enhances the understanding of our performance by highlighting the results of operations and the underlying profitability drivers of our business. Operating revenues, operating expenses, operating earnings, and operating earnings available to common shareholders, should not be viewed as substitutes for the following financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP: GAAP revenues, GAAP expenses, GAAP income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, and GAAP net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders, respectively. Reconciliations of these measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures are included in “— Results of Operations.”

In 2011, management modified its definition of operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders to exclude the impacts of the Divested Businesses, which includes certain operations of MetLife Bank, National Association (“MetLife Bank”) and our insurance operations in the Caribbean region, Panama and Costa Rica (the “Caribbean Business”), as these results are not relevant to understanding the Company’s ongoing operating results. In the third quarter of 2012, MetLife, Inc. began reporting additional MetLife Bank operations as Divested Businesses. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Consequently, prior period results for Corporate & Other have decreased by $41 million, net of $25 million of income tax, and $44 million, net of $27 million of income tax, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. Also, prior period results for Latin America have decreased by $3 million, net of $2 million of income tax, and $10 million, net of $5 million of income tax, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. As a result of the modified definition, prior period consolidated operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders have decreased by $44 million, net of $27 million of income tax, and $54 million, net of $32 million of income tax, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

 

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In this discussion, we sometimes refer to sales activity for various products. These sales statistics do not correspond to revenues under GAAP, but are used as relevant measures of business activity. Additionally, the impact of changes in our foreign currency exchange rates is calculated using the average foreign currency exchange rates for the current period and is applied to the prior period. Also, operating return on common equity is defined as operating earnings available to common shareholders divided by average GAAP common equity.

Executive Summary

MetLife is a leading global provider of insurance, annuities and employee benefit programs throughout the United States, Japan, Latin America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Through its subsidiaries and affiliates, MetLife offers life insurance, annuities, property & casualty insurance, and other financial services to individuals, as well as group insurance and retirement & savings products and services to corporations and other institutions.

Our well-recognized brand, leading market positions, competitive and innovative product offerings and financial strength and expertise should help drive future growth and enhance shareholder value, building on a long history of fairness, honesty and integrity. Over the course of the next several years, we will pursue the following objectives to position the Company for continued growth and achieve our vision of being recognized as the leading global life insurance and employee benefits provider:

 

   

Refocus our U.S. businesses

 

  Manage mature markets for cash flow

 

  Shift product mix away from capital intensive products

 

  Invest in growth initiatives for the voluntary/worksite and direct channels

 

  Drive margin improvement

 

   

Build the Global Employee Benefits business

 

  Accelerate our local employee benefits businesses outside the United States

 

  Grow our global benefits businesses through multinational and expatriate solutions

 

   

Grow emerging markets presence

 

  Seek opportunistic mergers and acquisitions opportunities to complement our organic growth

 

  Accelerate our base of earnings in emerging markets in which we already have a strong presence

 

   

Drive toward customer centricity and a global brand

 

  Develop a deep understanding of our customers’ needs and expectations

 

  Capture unique market and industry consumer insights

 

  Build a global brand with a singular global brand promise

As announced in November 2011, the Company reorganized its business from its former U.S. Business and International structure into three broad geographic regions to better reflect its global reach. As a result, in the first quarter of 2012, the Company reorganized into six segments, reflecting these broad geographic regions: Retail; Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits; Corporate Benefit Funding; and Latin America (collectively, “The Americas”); Asia; and Europe, the Middle East and Africa (“EMEA”). As anticipated, in the third quarter of

 

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2012, the Company continued to realign certain products and businesses among its existing segments to better conform to the way it manages and assesses its business as noted below. Management continues to evaluate the Company’s segment performance and allocated resources and may adjust such measurements in the future to better reflect segment profitability.

The Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment is now organized into two businesses: Group and Voluntary & Worksite. The insurance products and services that were previously reported in the former Non-Medical Health business are now divided between the Group and Voluntary & Worksite businesses as follows: dental, group short- and long-term disability, and accidental death & dismemberment coverages are reported in Group; and long-term care, prepaid legal plans, and critical illness are reported in Voluntary & Worksite. Also, individual disability income, previously reported in the former Non-Medical Health business, is now reported in the Life & Other business (formerly the Life business) in the Retail segment. The products that were previously reported in the former Property & Casualty business are now reported in the Life & Other business in the Retail segment and the Voluntary & Worksite business in the Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment, based on such products’ distribution channel. In addition, the businesses in South Asia and India are now reported in the Asia segment. They were previously reported in the EMEA segment.

The Americas. The Americas consists of the following segments:

 

   

Retail. Our Retail segment offers a broad range of protection products and services and a variety of annuities to individuals and employees of corporations and other institutions, and is organized into two businesses: Life & Other and Annuities. Our Life & Other insurance products and services include variable life, universal life, term life and whole life products. Additionally, through our broker-dealer affiliates, we offer a full range of mutual funds and other securities products. Our Life & Other products and services also include individual disability income products and personal lines property & casualty insurance, including private passenger automobile, homeowners and personal excess liability insurance. Annuities include a variety of variable and fixed annuities which provide for both asset accumulation and asset distribution needs.

 

   

Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits. Our Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment offers a broad range of protection products and services to individuals and corporations, as well as other institutions and their respective employees, and is organized into two businesses: Group and Voluntary & Worksite. Group insurance products and services include variable life, universal life and term life products. Our Group insurance products and services also include dental, group short- and long-term disability and accidental death & dismemberment coverages. Our Voluntary & Worksite business includes personal lines property & casualty insurance, including private passenger automobile, homeowners and personal excess liability insurance offered to employees on a voluntary basis. Our Voluntary & Worksite business also includes long-term care, prepaid legal plans and critical illness products.

 

   

Corporate Benefit Funding. Our Corporate Benefit Funding segment offers a broad range of annuity and investment products, including guaranteed interest products and other stable value products, income annuities, and separate account contracts for the investment management of defined benefit and defined contribution plan assets. This segment also includes certain products to fund postretirement benefits and company-, bank- or trust-owned life insurance used to finance non-qualified benefit programs for executives.

 

   

Latin America. Our Latin America segment offers a broad range of products to both individuals and corporations, as well as other institutions and their respective employees, which include life insurance, accident and health insurance, group medical, dental, credit life insurance, annuities, endowment and retirement & savings products.

Asia. Our Asia segment offers a broad range of products to both individuals and corporations, as well as other institutions and their respective employees, which include whole life, term life, variable life, universal life, accident and health insurance, fixed and variable annuities and endowment products.

 

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EMEA. Our EMEA segment offers a broad range of products to both individuals and corporations, as well as other institutions and their respective employees, which include life insurance, accident and health insurance, credit life insurance, annuities, endowment and retirement & savings products.

In addition, the Company reports certain of its results of operations in Corporate & Other, which includes MetLife Bank (see Note 2 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding MetLife Bank’s exit from certain of its businesses (the “MetLife Bank Events”)) and other business activities. Corporate & Other contains the excess capital not allocated to the segments, external integration costs, internal resource costs for associates committed to acquisitions and various start-up and certain run-off entities. Corporate & Other also includes assumed reinsurance of certain variable annuity products from our former operating joint venture in Japan. This in-force reinsurance agreement reinsures living and death benefit guarantees issued in connection with variable annuity products. Additionally, Corporate & Other includes interest expense related to the majority of the Company’s outstanding debt, expenses associated with certain legal proceedings, and income tax audit issues. Corporate & Other also includes the elimination of intersegment amounts, which generally relate to intersegment loans, which bear interest rates commensurate with related borrowings.

As discussed above, in the third quarter of 2012, as anticipated as part of the November 2011 reorganization, management realigned certain individual disability income and property & casualty products and began reporting such product results in the Retail segment. As a result of the first quarter segment reorganization, these results had been reported in the Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment. In accordance with the third quarter 2012 realignment, prior period operating earnings for the Retail segment increased by $14 million, net of $6 million of income tax benefit, and $17 million, net of $29 million of income tax benefit, with a corresponding decrease in the Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

Also, as anticipated as part of the November 2011 reorganization, in the third quarter of 2012, management realigned the businesses in South Asia and India and began reporting such results in the Asia segment. As a result of the first quarter segment reorganization, these results had been reported in the EMEA segment. In accordance with the third quarter 2012 realignment, prior period operating earnings for the Asia segment increased by $0, net of $2 million of income tax, and $4 million, net of $5 million of income tax, with a corresponding decrease in the EMEA segment, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

In the first quarter of 2012, the Company adopted new guidance regarding accounting for DAC. See Note 1 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information. As a result, prior period results have been revised in connection with the Company’s reorganization and the retrospective application of the first quarter 2012 adoption of new guidance regarding accounting for DAC.

We continue to experience an increase in sales in several of our businesses; however, global economic conditions continue to negatively impact the demand for some of our products. Portfolio growth, resulting from strong sales in the majority of our businesses, drove positive investment results and higher asset-based fee revenue. In addition, changes in interest rates and the impact of the nonperformance risk adjustment on variable

 

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annuity embedded derivatives resulted in significant derivative losses. Also, a goodwill impairment charge recorded in the current period drove a net loss.

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (In millions)  

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

   $ (957   $ 3,442     $ 1,209     $ 5,428  

Less: Net investment gains (losses)

     22       (55     (152     (309

Less: Net derivative gains (losses)

     (718     4,196       (604     4,233  

Less: Goodwill impairment

     (1,868            (1,868       

Less: Other adjustments to continuing operations (1)

     (472     (345     (1,619     (915

Less: Provision for income tax (expense) benefit

     632       (1,349     1,048       (1,105
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating earnings

     1,447       995       4,404       3,524  

Less: Preferred stock dividends

     30       30       91       91  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating earnings available to common shareholders

   $ 1,417     $ 965     $ 4,313     $ 3,433  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

See definitions of operating revenues and operating expenses for the components of such adjustments

Three Months Ended September 30, 2012 Compared with the Three Months Ended September 30, 2011

During the three months ended September 30, 2012, income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, decreased $4.4 billion from the prior period. The change was predominantly due to a $4.9 billion ($3.2 billion, net of income tax) unfavorable change in net derivative gains (losses) primarily driven by changes in interest rates, equity market movements, decreased volatility and the impact of a nonperformance risk adjustment. In addition, the current period includes a $1.9 billion ($1.6 billion, net of income tax) non-cash charge for goodwill impairment associated with our U.S. retail annuities business. Also included in income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, were the unfavorable results of the Divested Businesses which decreased $179 million ($116 million, net of income tax) from the prior period. These declines were partially offset by a $452 million, net of income tax, increase in operating earnings available to common shareholders.

The increase in operating earnings available to common shareholders was primarily driven by improved investment results and higher asset-based fee revenue as strong sales levels drove portfolio growth. The low interest rate environment reduced investment yields; however, it also resulted in a decline in interest credited rates, which more than offset the negative impact on yields. Catastrophe losses were lower in the current period as compared to the significant weather-related claims in the prior period. The prior period also included a $117 million charge in connection with the Company’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File and similar databases to identify potential life insurance claims that have not yet been presented to the Company (“Death Master File”).

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012 Compared with the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011

During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, decreased $4.2 billion from the prior period. The change was predominantly due to a $4.8 billion ($3.1 billion, net of income tax), unfavorable change in net derivative gains (losses) primarily driven by changes in interest rates, equity market movements, decreased volatility and the impact of a nonperformance risk adjustment. In addition, the current period includes a $1.9 billion ($1.6 billion, net of income tax) non-cash charge for goodwill impairment associated with our U.S. retail annuities business. Also included in income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, were the unfavorable results of the Divested Businesses which decreased $590 million ($382 million, net of income tax) from the prior period. These declines were partially offset by an $880 million increase in operating earnings available to common shareholders.

 

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The increase in operating earnings available to common shareholders was primarily driven by improved investment results and higher asset-based fee revenue as strong sales levels drove portfolio growth. In addition, the low interest rate environment resulted in lower average interest credited rates. Catastrophe losses were lower in the current period as compared to the significant weather-related claims in the prior period. In addition, the prior period included a $117 million charge in connection with the Company’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File. The prior period also included $40 million of expenses incurred related to a liquidation plan filed by the New York State Department of Financial Services (the “Department of Financial Services”) for Executive Life Insurance Company of New York (“ELNY”). Current period results include a $52 million charge representing a multi-state examination payment related to unclaimed property and MetLife’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File to identify potential life insurance claims, as well as the expected acceleration of benefit payments to policyholders under the settlements.

Consolidated Company Outlook

In 2012, we expect a solid improvement in the operating earnings of the Company over 2011, driven primarily by the following:

 

   

Growth in premiums, fees and other revenues driven by:

 

 

Rational pricing strategy in the group insurance marketplace;

 

 

Higher fees earned on separate accounts primarily due to favorable net flows of variable annuities, which are expected to remain strong through the end of 2012, thereby increasing the value of those separate accounts; and

 

 

Increases in our businesses outside of the U.S., notably accident and health, from continuing organic growth throughout our various geographic regions and leveraging of our multichannel distribution network.

 

   

Expanding our presence in emerging markets.

 

   

Focus on disciplined underwriting. We see no significant changes to the underlying trends that drive underwriting results and continue to anticipate solid results through the end of 2012; however, unanticipated catastrophes could result in a high volume of claims. Hurricane Sandy, which made landfall in the United States on October 29, 2012, caused loss of lives and extensive property damage. Because of the limited information available, the Company is currently unable to reasonably estimate the impact of the hurricane on its property & casualty insurance operations or other businesses.

 

   

Focus on expense management. We continue to focus on expense control throughout the Company, and managing the costs associated with the integration of American Life Insurance Company and Delaware American Life Insurance Company (collectively, “ALICO”).

 

   

Continued disciplined approach to investing and asset/liability management (“ALM”), including significant hedging to protect against low interest rates.

As a result of new financial accounting guidance for DAC which we adopted in the first quarter of 2012, we estimate that there will be a negative impact on our 2012 operating earnings primarily in the Asia segment, with no impact on our future cash flows. See Note 1 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

We expect only modest investment losses in 2012, but more difficult to predict is the impact of potential changes in fair value of freestanding and embedded derivatives as even relatively small movements in market variables, including interest rates, equity levels and volatility, can have a large impact on the fair value of derivatives and net derivative gains (losses). Additionally, changes in fair value of embedded derivatives within certain insurance liabilities may have a material impact on net derivative gains (losses) related to the inclusion of a nonperformance risk adjustment.

 

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As part of an enterprise-wide strategic initiative, by 2016, the Company expects to increase its operating return on common equity to between 12% and 14%, up from 10.3% at December 31, 2011, driven by higher operating earnings. The Company will leverage its scale to improve the value it provides to customers and shareholders in order to achieve $1 billion in efficiencies, $600 million of which is related to net pre-tax expense savings, and $400 million of which will be reinvested in our technology, platforms and functionality to improve our current operations and develop new capabilities. Additionally, the Company will shift its product mix toward protection products and away from more capital-intensive products, in order to generate more predictable operating earnings and cash flows, and improve its risk profile and free cash flow. The Company expects that by 2016, more than 20% of its operating earnings will come from emerging markets.

Industry Trends

We continue to be impacted by the unstable global financial and economic environment that has been affecting the industry.

Financial and Economic Environment

Our business and results of operations are materially affected by conditions in the global capital markets and the economy generally. Stressed conditions, volatility and disruptions in global capital markets, particular markets, or financial asset classes can have an adverse effect on us, in part because we have a large investment portfolio and our insurance liabilities are sensitive to changing market factors. Global market factors, including interest rates, credit spreads, equity prices, real estate markets, foreign currency exchange rates, consumer spending, business investment, government spending, the volatility and strength of the capital markets, deflation and inflation, all affect the business and economic environment and, ultimately, the amount and profitability of our business. Disruptions in one market or asset class can also spread to other markets or asset classes. Upheavals in the financial markets can also affect our business through their effects on general levels of economic activity, employment and customer behavior. While our diversified business mix and geographically diverse business operations partially mitigate these risks, correlation across regions, countries and global market factors may reduce the benefits of diversification.

Concerns about economic conditions, capital markets and the solvency of certain European Union member states, including Portugal, Ireland, Italy, Greece and Spain (“Europe’s perimeter region”) and Cyprus, and of financial institutions that have significant direct or indirect exposure to debt issued by these countries, have been a cause of elevated levels of market volatility. See “— Investments — Current Environment” for information regarding credit ratings downgrades, support programs for Europe’s perimeter region and our exposure to obligations of European governments and private obligors. The financial markets have also been affected by concerns that other European Union member states could experience similar financial troubles, that some countries could default on their obligations, have to restructure their outstanding debt, or be unable or unwilling to comply with the terms of any aid provided to them, that financial institutions with significant holdings of sovereign or private debt issued by borrowers in Europe’s perimeter region could experience financial stress, or that one or more countries may exit the Euro zone, any of which could have significant adverse effects on the European and global economies and on financial markets, generally. In September 2012, the European Central Bank (“ECB”) announced a new bond buying program, Outright Monetary Transactions, intended to stabilize the European financial crisis and help certain countries struggling with their levels of sovereign debt. This program involves the purchase by the ECB of unlimited quantities of short-term sovereign bonds, with maturities of one to three years. These large scale purchases of short-term sovereign bonds are intended to increase the price of the bonds, and lower their interest rates, making it less expensive for certain countries to borrow money. As a condition to participating in this program, countries must agree to strict levels of economic reform and oversight. See “Risk Factors — We Are Exposed to Significant Financial and Capital Markets Risk Which May Adversely Affect Our Results of Operations, Financial Condition and Liquidity, and May Cause Our Net Investment Income to Vary from Period to Period” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

Financial markets have also been affected by concerns over U.S. fiscal policy, including the uncertainty regarding the “fiscal cliff,” which is comprised of a series of tax increases and automatic government spending

 

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cuts that will become effective at the beginning of 2013 unless steps are taken to delay or offset them, as well as the need to again raise the U.S. federal government’s debt ceiling by the end of 2012 and reduce the federal deficit. These issues could, on their own, or combined with the slowing of the global economy generally, send the U.S. into a new recession, have severe repercussions to the U.S. and global credit and financial markets, further exacerbate concerns over sovereign debt of other countries and disrupt economic activity in the U.S. and elsewhere. See “Risk Factors — Concerns Over U.S. Fiscal Policy and the “Fiscal Cliff” in the U.S., as well as Rating Agency Downgrades of U.S. Treasury Securities, Could Have an Adverse Effect on Our Business, Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in the MetLife, Inc. Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2012 (the “June 30, 2012 Form 10-Q”).

In September 2012, Moody’s Investors Service (“Moody’s”) changed its outlook for the U.S. life insurance industry to negative from stable, saying it expects interest rates to remain in the low single digits for the next few years, depressing such companies’ earnings. In June 2012, Moody’s announced that it downgraded the long-term ratings and standalone credit for a number of banks and securities firms with global capital markets operations. Through our ongoing credit evaluation process, we have been closely monitoring our financial institution investment holdings, including the impact of the Moody’s downgrades to these institutions, and do not expect these downgrades to have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Impact of a Sustained Low Interest Rate Environment. As a financial holding company with significant operations in the U.S., we are affected by the monetary policy of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve Board”) and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (the “FRB of NY” and, collectively with the Federal Reserve Board, the “Federal Reserve”). The Federal Reserve Board has taken a number of actions in recent years to spur economic activity by keeping interest rates low and may take further actions to influence interest rates in the future, which may have an impact on the pricing levels of risk-bearing investments, and may adversely impact the level of product sales.

In September 2012, the Federal Reserve Board announced that it anticipates that low interest rates are likely to be warranted at least through mid-2015, in order to improve the pace of recovery from stressed economic conditions. It also announced that it will expand its holdings of longer-term securities with open-ended purchases of $40 billion each month of agency mortgage-backed securities. Finally, it reiterated its plan to continue “Operation Twist” through the end of 2012. This program, announced in September 2011 by the Federal Open Market Committee, involves the purchase of U.S. Treasury securities with remaining maturities of six to 30 years and the sale of, over the same period, an equal par value of U.S. Treasury securities with remaining maturities of approximately three years or less. By reducing the supply of longer-term securities in the market, both of these programs are intended to put downward pressure on longer-term interest rates relative to levels that would otherwise prevail. The reduction in longer-term interest rates, in turn, is intended to contribute to a broad easing of financial market conditions that could provide additional stimulus to support the economic recovery.

As a global insurance company, we are also affected by the monetary policy of central banks around the world. While the major central banks are not lowering interest rates at the same pace as in prior quarters, the Federal Reserve Board, ECB, Bank of England and Bank of Japan have all increased their use of “non-traditional” means of monetary policy via their asset purchase programs. We cannot predict with certainty the effect of these asset purchase programs on interest rates or the impact on the pricing levels of risk-bearing investments at this time. See “Risk Factors — Governmental and Regulatory Actions for the Purpose of Stabilizing and Revitalizing the Financial Markets and Protecting Investors and Consumers May Not Achieve the Intended Effect or Could Adversely Affect Our Competitive Position” included in the 2011 Annual Report and “— Investments — Current Environment.”

Some of our products expose us to the risk that changes in interest rates will reduce our investment margin or “spread,” or the difference between the amounts that we are required to fund under contracts in our general account liabilities and the rate of return we are able to earn on general account investments intended to support obligations under the contracts. Our spread is a key component of our net income.

 

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In periods of declining interest rates, we may have to invest insurance cash flows and to reinvest the cash flows we received as interest or return of principal on our investments in lower yielding instruments. Moreover, borrowers may prepay or redeem the fixed income securities, commercial or agricultural mortgage loans and mortgage-backed securities in our investment portfolio with greater frequency in order to borrow at lower market rates. In periods of changing interest rates, net derivative gains (losses) will also be impacted, particularly when changes in interest rates are highly volatile. Our expectation for future spreads is an important component in the amortization of DAC and VOBA, and significantly lower spreads may cause us to accelerate amortization, thereby reducing net income in the affected reporting period. Lower net income and operating earnings may also impact the carrying value of certain assets such as goodwill or potentially result in loss recognition on certain policy liabilities.

Mitigating Actions. The Company has been and continues to be proactive in its investment strategies, product designs, and crediting rate strategies to mitigate the risk of unfavorable consequences in this type of environment. Lowering interest crediting rates can help offset decreases in investment margins on some products. Our ability to lower interest crediting rates could be limited by competition, regulatory approval, or contractual guarantees of minimum rates and may not match the timing or magnitude of changes in asset yields. As a result, our spread could decrease or potentially become negative. The Company applies disciplined asset-liability management strategies, including the use of derivatives, to protect spreads on products subject to these risks as part of its investment strategy in mitigating the risk of sustained low interest rates in the U.S. In addition, business actions, such as shifting the sales focus to less interest rate sensitive products, can also mitigate this risk. As a result of these actions, the Company expects to be able to substantially mitigate the negative impact of a sustained low interest rate environment in the U.S. on the Company’s profitability. Based on a near to intermediate term analysis of sustained lower interest rate environment in the U.S., the Company anticipates operating earnings will continue to increase, although at a slower growth rate.

In addition, the Company is well diversified across product, distribution, and geography. Our non-U.S. businesses, reported within our Latin America, Asia and EMEA segments, which account for approximately 34% of our operating earnings, are not significantly interest rate or market sensitive. The Company’s primary exposure within these segments is insurance risk. We expect our non-U.S. businesses to grow faster than our U.S. businesses and, over time, to become a larger percentage of our total business.

The products that have significant sensitivity to U.S. interest rates are concentrated in the Company’s Retail and Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segments.

Competitive Pressures

The life insurance industry remains highly competitive. The product development and product life-cycles have shortened in many product segments, leading to more intense competition with respect to product features. Larger companies have the ability to invest in brand equity, product development, technology and risk management, which are among the fundamentals for sustained profitable growth in the life insurance industry. In addition, several of the industry’s products can be quite homogeneous and subject to intense price competition. Sufficient scale, financial strength and financial flexibility are becoming prerequisites for sustainable growth in the life insurance industry. Larger market participants tend to have the capacity to invest in additional distribution capability and the information technology needed to offer the superior customer service demanded by an increasingly sophisticated industry client base. We believe that the turbulence in financial markets that began in the second half of 2007, its impact on the capital position of many competitors, and subsequent actions by regulators and rating agencies have highlighted financial strength as a significant differentiator from the perspective of customers and certain distributors. In addition, the financial market turbulence and the economic recession have led many companies in our industry to re-examine the pricing and features of the products they offer and may lead to consolidation in the life insurance industry.

 

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Regulatory Developments

The U.S. life insurance industry is regulated primarily at the state level, with some products and services also subject to Federal regulation. As life insurers introduce new and often more complex products, regulators refine capital requirements and introduce new reserving standards for the life insurance industry. Regulations recently adopted or currently under review can potentially impact the statutory reserve and capital requirements of the industry. In addition, regulators have undertaken market and sales practices reviews of several markets or products, including equity-indexed annuities, variable annuities and group products, as well as reviews of the utilization of affiliated captive reinsurers or off-shore entities to reinsure insurance risks. The regulation of the financial services industry in the U.S. and internationally has received renewed scrutiny as a result of the disruptions in the financial markets. Significant regulatory reforms have been recently adopted and additional reforms proposed, and these or other reforms could be implemented. See “Risk Factors — Our Insurance, Brokerage and Banking Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation and in Supervisory and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth” and “Risk Factors — Our Statutory Reserve Financings May Be Subject to Cost Increases and New Financings May Be Subject to Limited Market Capacity,” as well as “Risk Factors — Changes in U.S. Federal and State Securities Laws and Regulations, and State Insurance Regulations Regarding Suitability of Annuity Product Sales, May Affect Our Operations and Our Profitability” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (“Dodd-Frank”), which was signed by President Obama in July 2010, effected the most far-reaching overhaul of financial regulation in the U.S. in decades. The full impact of Dodd-Frank on us will depend on the numerous rulemaking initiatives required or permitted by Dodd-Frank which have begun to be implemented, but which are not likely to be completed for some time. See “Risk Factors — Various Aspects of Dodd-Frank Could Impact Our Business Operations, Capital Requirements and Profitability and Limit Our Growth” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

As a federally chartered national banking association, MetLife Bank is subject to a wide variety of banking laws, regulations and guidelines, as is MetLife, Inc., as a bank holding company. Numerous other proposed or recently adopted enhanced regulatory requirements will apply to MetLife, Inc. if it remains a bank holding company, as discussed below. If MetLife is able to deregister as a bank holding company, it may be subject to some of the same or other enhanced regulatory requirements if, in the future, it is designated as a non-bank systemically important financial institution subject to enhanced supervision by the Federal Reserve (a “non-bank systemically important financial institution” or “non-bank SIFI”) or as a global systemically important insurer (“G-SII”), as described below.

In December 2011, MetLife Bank and MetLife, Inc. entered into a definitive agreement to sell most of the depository business of MetLife Bank to GE Capital Bank (formerly known as GE Capital Financial Inc.). In September 2012, this agreement was amended. Under the new structure, MetLife Bank’s depository business would be assumed by GE Capital Retail Bank, rather than by GE Capital Bank. The key terms of the agreement, whereby a GE Capital affiliate will acquire approximately $7 billion in MetLife Bank deposits, including certificates of deposit and money market accounts, remain unchanged. The transaction, as amended, will now be subject to approval by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the “OCC”), the primary regulator of GE Capital Retail Bank, and other customary closing conditions. The approval of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”) will no longer be required for the transaction. Upon completion of the sale, MetLife Bank would take the remaining administrative steps with the FDIC to terminate its deposit insurance and MetLife, Inc. would deregister as a bank holding company. Upon completion of the foregoing, MetLife, Inc. will no longer be regulated as a bank holding company or subject to enhanced supervision and prudential standards as a bank holding company with assets of $50 billion or more. However, if, in the future, the Financial Stability Oversight Council (“FSOC”) designates MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI, we would once again be subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve and enhanced supervision and prudential standards, such as those in the Federal Reserve’s proposed Regulation YY. See “— Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — Regulatory Developments Relating to Non-Bank SIFIs and G-SIIs.”

Additionally, in January 2012, MetLife, Inc. announced it was exiting the business of originating forward residential mortgage loans and, in April 2012, announced it was exiting the businesses of originating and

 

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servicing reverse residential mortgage loans and that it and MetLife Bank entered into a definitive agreement to sell MetLife Bank’s reverse mortgage servicing portfolio. In June 2012, the Company sold the majority of MetLife Bank’s reverse mortgage servicing rights and related assets and liabilities, with the remainder sold in September 2012 pursuant to the same sales agreement. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Also, in the third quarter of 2012, we began exploring the sale of MetLife Bank’s forward mortgage servicing assets and operations and, therefore, began reporting this business as divested. On November 2, 2012, MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Bank entered into a definitive agreement to sell MetLife Bank’s forward mortgage servicing portfolio to JPMorganChase Bank, N.A. The transaction is subject to certain regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Upon entering into this agreement, MetLife Bank has committed to sell or has otherwise exited most of its operations.

Regulatory Developments Applicable to Bank Holding Companies. The Federal Reserve’s capital plans rule requires all bank holding companies with assets of more than $50 billion, including MetLife, Inc., to submit annual capital plans which include proposed capital actions and projections of the company’s capital levels under baseline and stress scenarios over a nine-quarter period. The Federal Reserve will approve or object to a company’s proposed capital distributions, such as dividends and stock repurchases, based on the results of those capital plans and the Federal Reserve’s assessment of the robustness of the company’s capital planning processes. In addition, in recent years, the Federal Reserve has conducted the Comprehensive Capital Analysis and Review (“CCAR”), an assessment of the internal capital planning processes, capital adequacy and proposed capital distributions of large bank holding companies, including MetLife, Inc. The capital plan we submitted to the Federal Reserve in January 2012 included an anticipated repurchase of common stock and an anticipated increase to MetLife, Inc.’s annual dividend to its stockholders. The Federal Reserve objected to the capital plan in March of 2012; therefore, MetLife, Inc. is unable to repurchase its common stock or increase its aggregate annual dividend amount above $0.74 per share or $0.8 billion based on the outstanding shares at September 30, 2012, until such time as MetLife is no longer subject to the capital plans rule and supervision by the Federal Reserve, or submits a capital plan that is approved by the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve, pursuant to MetLife’s request, has extended the time for MetLife to resubmit its capital plan until January 5, 2013. Unless MetLife receives an extension, it may also need to submit a capital plan for 2013 if MetLife, Inc. is still a bank holding company on January 5, 2013. See “Risk Factors — Our Ability to Pay Dividends and Repurchase Common Stock is Subject to Regulatory Restrictions and to Restrictions Under the Terms of Certain of Our Securities” for additional information on dividend restrictions.

In June 2012, the OCC, Federal Reserve Board and the FDIC published three notices of proposed rulemaking (the “Bank Capital NPRs”) that would revise and replace the agencies’ current capital rules with rules consistent with (i) the final rules for increased capital and liquidity requirements for bank holding companies, such as MetLife, Inc., published by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (the “Basel Committee”) in December 2010 (“Basel III”), as well as the applicable sections of Dodd-Frank, (ii) a series of revisions adopted by the Basel Committee to the market risk capital requirements for exposures in a banking organization’s trading book in 2005, 2009 and 2010 (collectively, “Basel II.5”), and (iii) the market risk capital requirements as initially published by the Basel Committee in June 2004 (“Basel II”). The first Bank Capital NPR, to be phased in from 2013 through 2019, focuses on establishing new risk-based and leverage capital ratios, and would revise rules on what constitutes “capital” in accordance with Basel III. The second Bank Capital NPR, to be effective on January 1, 2015, focuses primarily on the risk-weighting of assets and activities of banking organizations in accordance with Basel II. The third Bank Capital NPR includes revisions to the advanced approaches risk-based capital rules of Basel II, applicable to the largest banking organizations, to make them consistent with Basel III and Dodd-Frank. Finally, the agencies finalized the market risk capital rule, implementing Basel II.5. These capital requirements would not apply to MetLife, Inc. if it succeeds in deregistering as a bank holding company before the rules become effective.

The Basel Committee has also published rules requiring a capital surcharge for globally systemically important banks. The Bank Capital NPRs did not implement this capital surcharge. Rules implementing the capital surcharge are expected to be finalized by 2014, with a phase-in from 2016 to 2019. As currently proposed,

 

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this surcharge would not apply to global non-bank SIFIs. However, international regulatory bodies are currently engaged in evaluating standards to identify such companies and to develop a regulatory regime that would apply to them, which may include enhanced capital requirements or other measures, as discussed below.

In December 2011, the Federal Reserve Board issued a notice of proposed rulemaking relating to enhanced prudential standards required by Dodd-Frank for bank holding companies with assets of $50 billion or more and non-bank SIFIs, known as Regulation YY. Regulation YY would impose (i) enhanced risk-based capital requirements, (ii) leverage limits, (iii) liquidity requirements, (iv) single counterparty exposure limits, (v) governance requirements for risk management, (vi) stress test requirements, and (vii) special debt-to-equity limits for certain companies, and would establish a procedure for early remediation based on the failure to comply with these requirements.

In October 2012, the Federal Reserve Board issued a final rule implementing the stress testing requirements that it had earlier proposed as part of Regulation YY. The rule will require bank holding companies with $50 billion or more of assets and non-bank SIFIs to undergo three stress tests each year: an annual supervisory stress test conducted by the Federal Reserve Board and two company-run stress tests (an annual test which coincides with the timing of the supervisory stress test, and a mid-cycle test). The stress tests will project various measures of a company’s revenues, earnings, losses on loans, securities and other assets, and capital levels over a nine-month planning period under baseline, adverse and severely adverse scenarios. The Federal Reserve will publish some of the results of the supervisory stress test and will require participating companies to publish some of the results of the company-run stress tests. Companies will be required to take the results of the stress tests into consideration in their annual capital planning and resolution and recovery planning. As a bank holding company with more than $50 billion of assets, MetLife will be subject to these requirements; it will have to submit the results of its company-run annual stress test on January 5, 2013 if it is still a bank holding company on that date, unless the Federal Reserve Board extends the due date. If MetLife, Inc. is able to deregister as a bank holding company but is subsequently designated a non-bank SIFI, it will become subject to the stress testing requirements for non-bank SIFIs.

The ability of MetLife Bank and MetLife, Inc., as a bank holding company, to pay dividends, repurchase common stock or other securities or engage in other transactions that could affect its capital or need for capital could be reduced by any additional capital requirements that might be imposed as a result of the enactment of Dodd-Frank, Regulation YY and/or the adoption of the Bank Capital NPRs, stress testing and other regulatory initiatives, if MetLife Inc. is unable to deregister as a bank holding company before the requirements become effective or if MetLife, Inc. is designated a non-bank SIFI in the future. See “Risk Factors — Our Insurance, Brokerage and Banking Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation and in Supervisory and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth.”

In April 2011, the Federal Reserve Board and the FDIC proposed a rule regarding the implementation of the Dodd-Frank requirement that (i) each non-bank SIFI and each bank holding company with assets of $50 billion or more report periodically to the Federal Reserve Board, the FDIC and the FSOC the plan of such company for rapid and orderly resolution in the event of material financial distress or failure (sometimes referred to as a “living will”), and (ii) that each such company report on the nature and extent of credit exposures of such company to significant bank holding companies and significant non-bank financial companies and the nature and extent of credit exposures of significant bank holding companies and significant non-bank financial companies to such covered company. In November 2011, the Federal Reserve Board and the FDIC adopted a final rule implementing the resolution plan requirement, effective November 30, 2011, but deferred finalizing the credit exposure reporting requirement until a later date. MetLife, Inc. was not among the institutions that were required to submit a resolution plan on July 2, 2012, but the requirement may apply to MetLife, Inc. if it remains a bank holding company, or if, in the future, the FSOC designates MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI.

Regulatory Developments Relating to Non-Bank SIFIs and G-SIIs. If MetLife, Inc. is able to deregister as a bank holding company, many of the foregoing requirements will not apply to it. However, if, in the future, the FSOC designates MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI, it could once again be subject to regulation by the Federal

 

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Reserve and enhanced supervision and prudential standards, such as enhanced prudential standards pursuant to Regulation YY and the requirements relating to stress testing, resolution planning and (when adopted) credit exposure reporting. As proposed, Regulation YY would apply the same enhanced regulatory standards to non-bank SIFIs as would apply to systemically important banks; the Federal Reserve Board has solicited and is considering comments on the appropriateness of this treatment. For further information regarding enhanced prudential standards and Regulation YY, see “Business — U.S. Regulation — Dodd Frank and Other Legislative and Regulatory Developments – Enhanced Prudential Standards” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

In April 2012, the FSOC adopted final rules setting forth the process it will follow and the criteria it will use to assess whether a non-bank financial company should be subject to enhanced supervision by the Federal Reserve as a non-bank SIFI. The FSOC will follow a three-stage process. In Stage 1, a set of uniform quantitative metrics will be applied to a broad group of non-bank financial companies in order to identify non-bank financial companies for further evaluation. If a non-bank financial company meets the total consolidated assets threshold and at least one of the other five quantitative thresholds used in the first stage, the FSOC will continue with two stages of further analysis using additional sources of data and qualitative and quantitative factors. MetLife, Inc. is currently a bank holding company and, as a result, it is not subject to designation as a non-bank SIFI. However, if MetLife, Inc. succeeds in deregistering as a bank holding company, it could be considered for designation as a non-bank SIFI. As of September 30, 2012, MetLife, Inc. met the total consolidated assets threshold and at least one of the other Stage 1 quantitative thresholds.

As part of the global initiative to identify global systemically important financial institutions, in May 2012, the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (“IAIS”) published a proposed assessment methodology for designating G-SIIs. The proposed methodology is intended to identify those insurers whose distress or disorderly failure, because of their size, complexity and interconnectedness, would cause significant disruption to the global financial system and economic activity. The proposed methodology has three steps: (i) data collection; (ii) assessment using a quantitative indicator-based assessment (addressing five categories: size, extent of global activity, degree of interconnectedness within the financial system, amount of non-traditional and non-insurance activities and substitutability) and a more qualitative business segment assessment; and (iii) supervisory judgment and validation process, including quantitative and qualitative assessments. Based on information obtained from the IAIS, the Financial Stability Board, an international entity established to coordinate, develop and promote effective regulatory, supervisory and other financial sector policies in the interest of financial stability, will make final recommendations in consultation with national supervisory authorities. Comments on the proposal were submitted July 1, 2012 and, on September 21, 2012, the IAIS published a report proposing the resolution of issues raised during the comment period. The IAIS expects to publish the first list of G-SIIs in the first half of 2013, with annual updates thereafter, enabling insurers to move on and off the list, in order to incentivize insurers to reduce their systemic importance. Any insurers identified as G-SIIs would be subject to additional policy measures. These policy measures were outlined in an October 2012 IAIS consultation paper (with comments due in December 2012) and the IAIS has stated that it intends to finalize them at the same time as the first group of G-SIIs is identified. The proposed policy measures, which would need to be implemented by legislation or regulation in relevant jurisdictions, include higher capital requirements (both for non-traditional and non-insurance activities and for G-SIIs overall), enhanced supervision (including more detailed and frequent reporting, removal of barriers to orderly resolution of the G-SII and reduction of the G-SII’s systemic risk over time), as well as additional measures to improve the degree of self-sufficiency of a G-SII’s different business segments (including separate legal structures for traditional insurance and non-traditional or non-insurance activities, and restrictions on intercompany subsidies). If MetLife, Inc. were identified as a G-SII, its competitive position relative to other life insurers that were not so designated could be adversely affected. See “Risk Factors — Our Insurance, Brokerage and Banking Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation and in Supervisory and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth.”

Regulatory Developments Affecting Investment Activities and Derivatives, including the Volcker Rule. Dodd-Frank also includes provisions that may impact the investments and investment activities of MetLife, Inc. and its subsidiaries, including the federal regulation of such activities. Such provisions include the regulation of the

 

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over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivatives markets and the prohibitions on FDIC-insured depository institutions and their affiliates engaging in proprietary trading or sponsoring or investing in hedge funds or private equity funds (commonly known as the Volcker Rule). Dodd-Frank provides an exemption to the Volcker Rule for investment activity by a regulated insurance company or its affiliate solely for the general account of such insurance company if such activity is in compliance with the insurance company investment laws of the state or jurisdiction in which such company is domiciled and the appropriate Federal regulators after consultation with relevant insurance commissioners have not jointly determined such laws to be insufficient to protect the safety and soundness of the institution or the financial stability of the U.S. Other exemptions to the Volcker Rule, including, but not limited to, activities for risk-mitigating hedging and activities on behalf of customers, may be available for the general account or separate account activities of insurance companies. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the appropriate Federal regulatory authorities are permitted under Dodd-Frank to impose, as part of rulemaking, additional capital requirements and other restrictions on any exempted activity to protect the safety and soundness of an entity engaged in such activity.

Dodd-Frank provides for a period of rulemaking during which the effects of the statutory language may be clarified. Among other things, one task of the rulemaking is to appropriately accommodate the business of insurance within an insurance company subject to regulation in accordance with relevant insurance company investments laws. Pursuant to Dodd-Frank, the Volcker Rule became effective on July 21, 2012, notwithstanding the fact that final regulations on the Volcker Rule were not implemented by such date. On April 19, 2012, the Federal Reserve Board adopted a statement clarifying that a covered banking entity has the full two-year period provided by Dodd-Frank (i.e., until July 21, 2014) to fully conform its activities and investments to the Volcker Rule, subject to further extensions (up to three one-year extensions) by the Board in accordance with the statute. According to the statement, during the conformance period, every covered banking entity is expected to engage in good faith efforts, appropriate for its activities and investments, that will result in the conformance of all its activities and investments to such restrictions by no later than the end of the conformance period.

If and when MetLife Bank’s FDIC insurance is terminated, MetLife, Inc. and its affiliates will not be subject to the bans on proprietary trading and fund activities under the Volcker Rule. However, because the Volcker Rule nevertheless imposes additional capital requirements and quantitative limits on such trading and activities by a non-bank SIFI, MetLife, Inc. and its affiliates could be subject to such requirements and limits were MetLife, Inc. to be designated a non-bank SIFI. Regulations defining and governing such requirements and limits on non-bank SIFIs have not been proposed. Subject to safety and soundness determinations as part of rulemaking that could require additional capital requirements and quantitative limits, Dodd-Frank provides that the exemptions under the Volcker Rule also are available to exempt any additional capital requirements and quantitative limits on non-bank SIFIs.

Although MetLife believes that the statutory exemptions apply to the activities and investments of its insurance companies and other applicable affiliates, while it remains subject to the Volcker Rule and, until the rulemaking is complete, including the scope of the statutory exemptions to be applied to insurance companies for each of the prohibitions on proprietary trading and fund sponsoring or investing, it is unclear whether MetLife, Inc. may have to alter any of its future activities to comply, including continuing to invest in private investment funds for its general accounts or to issue certain insurance products backed by its separate accounts. See “Risk Factors – Various Aspects of Dodd-Frank Could Impact Our Business Operations, Capital Requirements and Profitability and Limit Our Growth” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

Mortgage and Foreclosure-Related Exposures

Since 2008, MetLife, through its affiliate, MetLife Bank, has been engaged in the forward and reverse residential mortgage origination and servicing business. In January 2012, MetLife, Inc. announced that it was exiting the business of originating forward residential mortgage loans and, in April 2012, announced it was exiting the businesses of originating and servicing reverse residential mortgage loans and that it and MetLife Bank entered into a definitive agreement to sell MetLife Bank’s reverse mortgage servicing portfolio. In June 2012, the Company sold the majority of MetLife Bank’s reverse mortgage servicing rights and related assets and

 

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liabilities, with the remainder sold in September 2012 pursuant to the same agreement. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Also, in the third quarter of 2012, we began exploring the sale of MetLife Bank’s forward mortgage servicing assets and operations and, therefore, began reporting this business as divested. On November 2, 2012, MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Bank entered into a definitive agreement to sell MetLife Bank’s forward mortgage servicing portfolio to JPMorganChase Bank, N.A. The transaction is subject to certain regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Upon entering into this agreement, MetLife Bank has committed to sell or has otherwise exited most of its operations.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, MetLife Bank continues to have obligations to repurchase loans or compensate for losses upon demand by investors due to claims alleging defects in servicing of the loans or that material representations made in connection with the sale of the loans (relating, for example, to the underwriting and origination of the loans) are incorrect. While MetLife Bank is indemnified by the sellers of the acquired assets, for various periods depending on the transaction and the nature of the claim, for origination and servicing deficiencies that occurred prior to MetLife Bank’s acquisition, including indemnification for any repurchase claims made from investors who purchased mortgage loans from the sellers, it is possible that the sellers may be unwilling or unable to honor such indemnification obligations. Substantially all mortgage servicing rights (“MSRs”) that were acquired by MetLife Bank relate to loans sold to Federal National Mortgage Association (“FNMA”) or Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“FHLMC”). MetLife Bank formerly originated and sold conventional residential mortgage loans primarily into FNMA and FHLMC securities and government residential mortgage loans (insured by the Federal Housing Administration or guaranteed by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs) into mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by Government National Mortgage Association (“GNMA”) (collectively, the “Agency Investors”) and, to a limited extent, a small number of private investors. Substantially all of MetLife Bank’s $69.1 billion servicing portfolio consists of Agency Investors’ product. While MetLife Bank’s exposure to repurchase obligations and losses related to origination deficiencies should be limited to the approximately $63.9 billion of loans originated by MetLife Bank (all of which have been originated since September 2008), it is possible that MetLife Bank may repurchase loans (originated prior to September 2008 by the seller of such loans to MetLife Bank) serviced by MetLife Bank for which indemnification obligations are not honored or available. Reserves for representation and warranty repurchases and indemnifications were $79 million and $69 million at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. MetLife Bank is exposed to losses due to claims alleging servicing deficiencies on loans originated and sold, as well as servicing acquired, to the extent such servicing deficiencies occurred while MetLife Bank was the servicer of record. Management is satisfied that adequate provision has been made in the Company’s consolidated financial statements for those repurchase obligations and losses that are currently probable and reasonably estimable.

Since 2008, MetLife, through its affiliate, MetLife Bank, has been engaged in the forward and reverse residential mortgage origination and servicing business. State and federal regulatory and law enforcement authorities have initiated various inquiries, investigations or examinations of alleged irregularities in the foreclosure practices of the residential mortgage servicing industry. Mortgage servicing practices have also been the subject of Congressional attention. Authorities have publicly stated that the scope of the investigations extends beyond foreclosure documentation practices to include mortgage loan modification and loss mitigation practices.

On April 13, 2011, the OCC entered into consent decrees with several banks, including MetLife Bank. The consent decrees require an independent review of foreclosure practices and set forth new residential mortgage servicing standards, including a requirement for a designated point of contact for a borrower during the loss mitigation process. In addition, the Federal Reserve Board entered into consent decrees with the affiliated bank holding companies of these banks, including MetLife, Inc., to enhance the supervision of the mortgage servicing activities of their banking subsidiaries. On August 6, 2012, the Federal Reserve Board issued an Order of Assessment of a Civil Monetary Penalty Issued Upon Consent against MetLife, Inc. that will impose a penalty of up to $3.2 million for the alleged deficiencies in oversight of MetLife Bank’s servicing of residential mortgage loans and processing foreclosures that were the subject of the 2011 consent decree.

 

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MetLife Bank also had a meeting with the Department of Justice regarding mortgage servicing and foreclosure practices. It is possible that various state or federal regulatory and law enforcement authorities may seek monetary penalties from MetLife Bank relating to foreclosure practices.

MetLife Bank has also responded to a subpoena issued by the New York State Department of Financial Services (“Department of Financial Services”) regarding hazard insurance and flood insurance that MetLife Bank obtains to protect the lienholder’s interest when the borrower’s insurance has lapsed. In April and May 2012, MetLife Bank received two subpoenas issued by the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development regarding Federal Housing Administration (“FHA”) insured loans. In June and September 2012, MetLife Bank received two Civil Investigative Demands that the U.S. Department of Justice issued as part of a False Claims Act investigation of allegations that MetLife Bank had improperly originated and/or underwritten loans insured by the FHA.

The consent decrees, as well as the inquiries or investigations referred to above, could adversely affect MetLife’s reputation or result in material fines, penalties, equitable remedies or other enforcement actions, and result in significant legal costs in responding to governmental investigations or other litigation. In addition, the changes to the mortgage servicing business required by the consent decrees and the resolution of any other inquiries or investigations may affect the profitability of such business.

The MetLife Bank Events may not relieve MetLife from complying with the consent decrees, or protect it from the inquiries and investigations relating to residential mortgage servicing and foreclosure activities, or any fines, penalties, equitable remedies or enforcement actions that may result, the costs of responding to any such governmental investigations, or other litigation.

Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to adopt accounting policies and make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The most critical estimates include those used in determining:

 

  (i)

estimated fair values of investments in the absence of quoted market values;

 

  (ii)

investment impairments;

 

  (iii)

estimated fair values of freestanding derivatives and the recognition and estimated fair value of embedded derivatives requiring bifurcation;

 

  (iv)

capitalization and amortization of DAC and the establishment and amortization of VOBA;

 

  (v)

measurement of goodwill and related impairment;

 

  (vi)

liabilities for future policyholder benefits and the accounting for reinsurance;

 

  (vii)

measurement of income taxes and the valuation of deferred tax assets;

 

  (viii)

measurement of employee benefit plan liabilities; and

 

  (ix)

liabilities for litigation and regulatory matters.

In addition, the application of acquisition accounting requires the use of estimation techniques in determining the estimated fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed — the most significant of which relate to aforementioned critical accounting estimates. In applying the Company’s accounting policies, we make subjective and complex judgments that frequently require estimates about matters that are inherently uncertain. Many of these policies, estimates and related judgments are common in the insurance and financial services industries; others are specific to the Company’s business and operations. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

 

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The above critical accounting estimates are described in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates” and Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report. Critical accounting estimate updates relating to goodwill are discussed below.

DAC

For a discussion of the new accounting guidance on DAC, see Note 1 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Goodwill

Goodwill is tested for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events or circumstances, such as adverse changes in the business climate, indicate that there may be justification for conducting an interim test.

For purposes of goodwill impairment testing, if the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its estimated fair value, the implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill is compared to the carrying value of that goodwill to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. In such instances, the implied fair value of the goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill that would be determined in a business acquisition. The key inputs, judgments and assumptions necessary in determining estimated fair value of the reporting units include projected operating earnings, current book value, the level of economic capital required to support the mix of business, long-term growth rates, comparative market multiples, the account value of in-force business, projections of new and renewal business, as well as margins on such business, the level of interest rates, credit spreads, equity market levels, and the discount rate that we believe is appropriate for the respective reporting unit. The estimated fair values of the Retail Annuities and Retail Life reporting units are particularly sensitive to interest rate and equity market levels.

In the third quarter of 2012, the Company performed its annual goodwill impairment test on its Retail Annuities reporting unit based upon data at June 30, 2012. The Company utilized both the market multiple and discounted cash flow (“DCF”) valuation approaches. Results for both approaches indicated that the fair value of the Retail Annuities reporting unit was below its carrying value. As a result, an actuarial appraisal, which estimates the net worth of the reporting unit, the value of existing business and the value of new business, was performed. This appraisal resulted in a fair value of the Retail Annuities reporting unit that was less than the carrying value, indicating a potential for goodwill impairment. The actuarial appraisal reflected the expected market impact to a buyer of changes in the regulatory environment, continued low interest rates for an extended period of time, and other market and economic factors. Specifically, in July 2012, the Department of Financial Services initiated an inquiry into the use of captive or off-shore reinsurers, strategies many market participants have used for capital efficiency on variable annuity products; the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) has also been studying the use of captives. See “Risk Factors — Our Insurance Brokerage and Banking Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation and in Supervision and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth” and “Risk Factors — Our Statutory Reserve Financings May Be Subject to Cost Increases and New Financings May be Subject to Limited Market Capacity.” Additionally, in the third quarter of 2012, the Federal Reserve announced that it anticipated that low interest rates are likely to be warranted at least through mid-2015, extending the time horizon from previous announcements. In July 2012, the 10-year U.S. Treasury rate was at its lowest point since the 1940’s. Finally, also in the third quarter of 2012, Moody’s changed its outlook for the U.S. life insurance industry to negative from stable, stating it expects interest rates to remain in the low single digits for the next few years. As a result, the Company performed Step 2 of the goodwill impairment process, which compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with its carrying value. This analysis indicated that the recorded goodwill associated with this reporting unit was not recoverable. Therefore, the Company recorded a non-cash charge of $1.9 billion ($1.6 billion, net of income tax) for the impairment of the entire goodwill balance that is reported in goodwill impairment in the interim condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income for both the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012.

 

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In the third quarter of 2012, the Company performed its annual goodwill impairment test on its Retail Life reporting unit based upon data at June 30, 2012. The Retail Life reporting unit passed both the market multiple valuation and the DCF valuation approaches. The fair value of the reporting unit, calculated based on application of the DCF valuation approach, exceeded the carrying value by approximately 3%. If we had assumed that the discount rate was 100 basis points higher than the discount rate used, the fair value of the Retail Life reporting unit would have been less than the carrying value by approximately 1%. As of June 30, 2012, the amount of goodwill allocated to the Retail Life reporting unit was approximately $1.3 billion.

In addition, the Company performed its annual goodwill impairment tests of its other reporting units during the third quarter of 2012 using a market multiple and/or the DCF approach based upon data at June 30, 2012 and concluded that the fair values of all such reporting units were in excess of their carrying values and, therefore, goodwill was not impaired.

As anticipated, in the third quarter of 2012, the Company continued to realign certain products and businesses among its existing segments. As a result, beginning in the third quarter of 2012, the Retail Life reporting unit was integrated with other products and businesses, including the Retail property & casualty business, which is less sensitive to changes in interest rates. The amount of goodwill allocated to the Retail Life & Other reporting unit was approximately $1.5 billion as of September 30, 2012. As a result of the realignment during the third quarter, the Company performed an analysis to identify all reporting units under the revised structure. Based on a qualitative assessment performed, the Company concluded that at September 30, 2012 there were no indicators of a scenario in which it was more likely than not that any reporting units had a carrying value that exceeded fair value, and thus, no further impairment analysis was performed. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate potential triggering events that may affect the estimated fair value of our reporting units to assess whether any goodwill impairment exists.

We apply significant judgment when determining the estimated fair value of our reporting units and when assessing the relationship of market capitalization to the aggregate estimated fair value of our reporting units. The valuation methodologies utilized are subject to key judgments and assumptions that are sensitive to change. Estimates of fair value are inherently uncertain and represent only management’s reasonable expectation regarding future developments. These estimates and the judgments and assumptions upon which the estimates are based will, in all likelihood, differ in some respects from actual future results. Declines in the estimated fair value of our reporting units could result in goodwill impairments in future periods which could materially adversely affect our results of operations or financial position. See “Risk Factors — If Our Business Does Not Perform Well, We May Be Required to Recognize an Impairment of Our Goodwill or Other Long-Lived Assets or to Establish a Valuation Allowance Against the Deferred Income Tax Asset, Which Could Adversely Affect Our Results of Operations or Financial Condition” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

See Note 7 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Company’s goodwill.

Economic Capital

Economic capital is an internally developed risk capital model, the purpose of which is to measure the risk in the business and to provide a basis upon which capital is deployed. The economic capital model accounts for the unique and specific nature of the risks inherent in the Company’s business.

The Company’s economic capital model aligns segment allocated equity with emerging standards and consistent risk principles. Segment net investment income is credited or charged based on the level of allocated equity; however, changes in allocated equity do not impact the Company’s consolidated net investment income, operating earnings or income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax.

Acquisitions and Dispositions

See Note 2 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Results of Operations

Three Months Ended September 30, 2012 Compared with the Three Months Ended September 30, 2011

Consolidated Results

We have experienced growth and an increase in sales in several of our businesses, both domestic and foreign. In the U.S., the economy has continued to slowly improve and, as a result, our group term life and disability businesses exhibited growth from new sales, and our dental business continued to benefit from strong enrollments and renewals along with a large new group contract that began in the second quarter of 2012. Sales of annuities declined in response to actions taken to manage sales volume as we focus on pricing discipline and risk management in this challenging economic environment. While we continue to experience strong sales in our pension closeout business in the U.K, weak equity market returns and lower interest rates adversely impacted sales of our pension closeouts and structured settlements in the U.S. Although policy sales of our property and casualty products remained sluggish, our average premiums for new policies increased.

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
           (In millions)              

Revenues

        

Premiums

   $ 9,096     $ 9,342     $ (246     (2.6 )% 

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     2,131       1,998       133       6.7

Net investment income

     5,517       4,252       1,265       29.8

Other revenues

     455       720       (265     (36.8 )% 

Net investment gains (losses)

     22       (55     77    

Net derivative gains (losses)

     (718     4,196       (4,914  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total revenues

     16,503       20,453       (3,950     (19.3 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Expenses

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     9,298       9,402       (104     (1.1 )% 

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     2,102       738       1,364    

Goodwill impairment

     1,868              1,868    

Capitalization of DAC

     (1,302     (1,527     225       14.7

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     1,008       1,718       (710     (41.3 )% 

Amortization of negative VOBA

     (170     (170           

Interest expense on debt

     326       425       (99     (23.3 )% 

Other expenses

     4,383       4,752       (369     (7.8 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total expenses

     17,513       15,338       2,175       14.2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income tax

     (1,010     5,115       (6,125  

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     (53     1,673       (1,726  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

     (957     3,442       (4,399  

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax

            8       (8     (100.0 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Net income (loss)

     (957     3,450       (4,407  

Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (3     (6     3       50.0
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Net income (loss) attributable to MetLife, Inc.

     (954     3,456       (4,410  

Less: Preferred stock dividends

     30       30             

 Preferred stock redemption premium

                         
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders

   $ (984   $ 3,426     $ (4,410  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

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During the three months ended September 30, 2012, income (loss) from continuing operations, before provision for income tax, decreased $6.1 billion ($4.4 billion, net of income tax) from the prior period primarily driven by an unfavorable change in net derivative gains (losses) and a goodwill impairment charge in the current period.

We manage our investment portfolio using disciplined ALM principles, focusing on cash flow and duration to support our current and future liabilities. Our intent is to match the timing and amount of liability cash outflows with invested assets that have cash inflows of comparable timing and amount, while optimizing risk-adjusted net investment income and risk-adjusted total return. Our investment portfolio is heavily weighted toward fixed income investments, with over 80% of our portfolio invested in fixed maturity securities and mortgage loans. These securities and loans have varying maturities and other characteristics which cause them to be generally well suited for matching the cash flow and duration of insurance liabilities. Other invested asset classes including, but not limited to, equity securities, other limited partnership interests and real estate and real estate joint ventures, provide additional diversification and opportunity for long-term yield enhancement in addition to supporting the cash flow and duration objectives of our investment portfolio. We also use derivatives as an integral part of our management of the investment portfolio to hedge certain risks, including changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, credit spreads and equity market levels. Additional considerations for our investment portfolio include current and expected market conditions and expectations for changes within our specific mix of products and business segments. In addition, the general account investment portfolio includes, within trading and other securities, contractholder-directed investments supporting unit-linked variable annuity type liabilities, which do not qualify as separate account assets. The returns on these contractholder-directed investments, which can vary significantly period to period, include changes in estimated fair value subsequent to purchase, inure to contractholders and are offset in earnings by a corresponding change in PABs through interest credited to policyholder account balances.

The composition of the investment portfolio of each business segment is tailored to the specific characteristics of its insurance liabilities, causing certain portfolios to be shorter in duration and others to be longer in duration. Accordingly, certain portfolios are more heavily weighted in longer duration, higher yielding fixed maturity securities, or certain sub-sectors of fixed maturity securities, than other portfolios.

Investments are purchased to support our insurance liabilities and not to generate net investment gains and losses. However, net investment gains and losses are incurred and can change significantly from period to period due to changes in external influences, including changes in market factors such as interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, credit spreads and equity markets; counterparty specific factors such as financial performance, credit rating and collateral valuation; and internal factors such as portfolio rebalancing. Changes in these factors from period to period can significantly impact the levels of both impairments and realized gains and losses on investments sold.

We use freestanding interest rate, equity, credit and currency derivatives to hedge certain invested assets and insurance liabilities. Certain of these hedges are designated and qualify as accounting hedges, which reduce volatility in earnings. For those hedges not designated as accounting hedges, changes in market factors lead to the recognition of fair value changes in net derivative gains (losses) generally without an offsetting gain or loss recognized in earnings for the item being hedged.

Certain variable annuity products with minimum benefit guarantees contain embedded derivatives that are measured at estimated fair value separately from the host variable annuity contract, with changes in estimated fair value recorded in net derivative gains (losses). The Company uses freestanding derivatives to hedge the market risks inherent in these variable annuity guarantees. The valuation of these embedded derivatives includes a nonperformance risk adjustment, which is unhedged and can be a significant driver of net derivative gains (losses) but does not have an economic impact on the Company.

The variable annuity embedded derivatives and associated freestanding derivative hedges are collectively referred to as “VA program derivatives” in the following table. All other derivatives that are economic hedges of certain invested assets and insurance liabilities are referred to as “non-VA program derivatives” in the following

 

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table. The table below presents the impact on net derivative gains (losses) from non-VA program derivatives and VA program derivatives:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Change  
     2012     2011    
     (In millions)  

Non-VA program derivatives

      

Interest rate

   $ (135   $ 1,912     $ (2,047

Foreign currency

     (174     461       (635

Credit

     2       164       (162

Equity

     1       (2     3  

Non-VA embedded derivatives

     (31     (1     (30
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total non-VA program derivatives

     (337     2,534       (2,871
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

VA program derivatives

      

Market and other risks in embedded derivatives

     792       (4,258     5,050  

Nonperformance risk on embedded derivatives

     (534     1,951       (2,485
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total embedded derivatives

     258       (2,307     2,565  

Freestanding derivatives hedging embedded derivatives

     (639     3,969       (4,608
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total VA program derivatives

     (381     1,662       (2,043
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net derivative gains (losses)

   $ (718   $ 4,196     $ (4,914
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The unfavorable change in net derivative gains (losses) on non-VA program derivatives was $2.9 billion ($1.9 billion, net of income tax). This reflects long-term interest rates increasing in the current period and decreasing significantly in the prior period, which primarily impacted receive-fixed interest rate swaps, long interest rate floors, receiver swaptions and long interest rate futures. These freestanding derivatives are primarily hedging long duration liability portfolios. In addition, a weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to other key currencies unfavorably impacted foreign currency swaps and forwards, which primarily hedge certain foreign denominated bonds. Because certain of these hedging strategies are not designated or do not qualify as accounting hedges, the changes in the estimated fair value of these freestanding derivatives are recognized in net derivative gains (losses) without an offsetting gain or loss recognized in earnings for the item being hedged.

The unfavorable change in net derivative gains (losses) on VA program derivatives was $2.0 billion ($1.3 billion, net of income tax). This was due to an unfavorable change of $2.5 billion ($1.6 billion, net of income tax) related to the change in the nonperformance risk adjustment on embedded derivatives, partially offset by a favorable change of $442 million ($287 million, net of income tax) in freestanding derivatives that hedge market risks in embedded derivatives, net of market and other risks in our embedded derivatives.

The favorable change of $442 million is comprised of a $5.1 billion ($3.3 billion, net of income tax) favorable change in market and other risks in our embedded derivatives which were driven by changes in market factors and a $4.6 billion ($3.0 billion, net of income tax) unfavorable change in freestanding derivatives that hedge market risks in embedded derivatives. Changes in non-market factors, which are unhedged, contributed to a favorable change of $461 million. The primary changes in market factors are summarized as follows:

 

   

U.S. equity index levels increased in the current period and decreased in the prior period and equity volatility decreased in the current period and increased in the prior period. These changes contributed to a favorable change in our embedded derivatives and an unfavorable change in our freestanding derivatives.

 

   

Long-term interest rates increased in the current period and decreased significantly in the prior period and contributed to an unfavorable change in our freestanding derivatives and a favorable change in our embedded derivatives.

 

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Changes in foreign currency exchange rates contributed to an unfavorable change in our freestanding derivatives and a favorable change in our embedded derivatives.

The improvement in net investment gains (losses) from losses in the prior period to gains in the current period primarily reflects a decrease in impairments of fixed maturity securities, primarily on Greece sovereign debt as a result of the July 2011 announcement of a debt exchange program, partially offset by a decrease in gains on sales of real estate investments and reductions to the mortgage loan valuation allowance in the prior period.

In addition, the current period includes a $1.9 billion ($1.6 billion, net of income tax) non-cash charge for goodwill impairment associated with our U.S. retail annuities business.

Income (loss) from continuing operations, before provision for income tax, related to the Divested Businesses, excluding net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), decreased $179 million to a loss of $108 million in the third quarter of 2012 compared to a gain of $71 million in the prior period. Included in this loss was a decrease in total revenues of $358 million and a decrease in total expenses of $179 million.

Income tax benefit for the three months ended September 30, 2012 was $53 million, or 5% of income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income tax, compared with income tax expense of $1.7 billion, or 33% of income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income tax, for the prior period. The Company’s third quarter 2012 and 2011 effective tax rates differ from the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily due to the impact of certain permanent tax differences, including non-taxable investment income and tax credits for investments in low income housing, in relation to income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income tax, as well as certain foreign permanent tax differences. In addition, as previously mentioned, the current period includes a $1.9 billion ($1.6 billion, net of income tax) non-cash charge for goodwill impairment. The tax benefit associated with this charge is limited to $247 million on the associated tax goodwill.

As more fully described in the discussion of performance measures above, we use operating earnings, which does not equate to income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, as determined in accordance with GAAP, to analyze our performance, evaluate segment performance, and allocate resources. We believe that the presentation of operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders, as we measure it for management purposes, enhances the understanding of our performance by highlighting the results of operations and the underlying profitability drivers of the business. Operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders should not be viewed as substitutes for GAAP income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, and GAAP net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders, respectively. Operating earnings available to common shareholders increased $452 million, net of income tax, to $1.4 billion, net of income tax, for the third quarter of 2012 from $965 million, net of income tax, in the prior period.

 

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Reconciliation of income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, to operating earnings available to common shareholders

Three Months Ended September 30, 2012

 

    Retail     Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
    Corporate
Benefit
Funding
    Latin
America
    Asia     EMEA     Corporate
& Other
    Total  
    (In millions)  

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

  $ (986   $ 212     $ 159     $ 201     $ 193     $ 104     $ (840   $ (957

Less: Net investment gains (losses)

    53       5       (25     (2     (47     73       (35     22  

Less: Net derivative gains (losses)

    191       (81     (194     19       (31     13       (635     (718

Less: Goodwill impairment

    (1,692                                        (176     (1,868

Less: Other adjustments to continuing operations (1)

    (254     (33     (3     44       (15     (12     (199     (472

Less: Provision for income tax (expense) benefit

    224       38       78       (12     27       (32     309       632  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating earnings

  $ 492     $ 283     $ 303     $ 152     $ 259     $ 62       (104     1,447  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

Less: Preferred stock dividends

                30       30  
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating earnings available to common shareholders

              $ (134   $ 1,417  
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

Three Months Ended September 30, 2011

 

    Retail     Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
    Corporate
Benefit
Funding
    Latin
America
    Asia     EMEA     Corporate
& Other
    Total  
    (In millions)  

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

  $ 1,134     $ 795     $ 615     $ (11   $ 275     $ (74   $ 708     $ 3,442  

Less: Net investment gains (losses)

    48       (15     83       (8     (34     (220     91       (55

Less: Net derivative gains (losses)

    1,474       1,034       447       (45     168       22       1,096       4,196  

Less: Goodwill impairment

                                                       

Less: Other adjustments to continuing operations (1)

    (108     (34     (2     (143     (26     (25     (7     (345

Less: Provision for income tax (expense) benefit

    (494     (343     (185     44       (55     84       (400     (1,349
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating earnings

  $ 214     $ 153     $ 272     $ 141     $ 222     $ 65       (72     995  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

Less: Preferred stock dividends

                30       30  
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating earnings available to common shareholders

              $ (102   $ 965  
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

See definitions of operating revenues and operating expenses for the components of such adjustments.

 

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Reconciliation of GAAP revenues to operating revenues and GAAP expenses to operating expenses

Three Months Ended September 30, 2012

 

    Retail     Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
    Corporate
Benefit
Funding
    Latin
America
    Asia     EMEA     Corporate
& Other
    Total  
    (In millions)  

Total revenues

  $ 5,109     $ 4,360     $ 1,785     $ 1,180     $ 3,275     $ 1,210     $ (416   $ 16,503  

Less: Net investment gains (losses)

    53       5       (25     (2     (47     73       (35     22  

Less: Net derivative gains (losses)

    191       (81     (194     19       (31     13       (635     (718

Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses)

    (3                          (2     1              (4

Less: Other adjustments to revenues (1)

    (19     (33     16       62       142       348       76       592  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating revenues

  $ 4,887     $ 4,469     $ 1,988     $ 1,101     $ 3,213     $ 775     $ 178     $ 16,611  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

  $ 6,066     $ 4,041     $ 1,541     $ 931     $ 2,973     $ 1,036     $ 925     $ 17,513  

Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses)

    10                            2       2              14  

Less: Goodwill impairment

    1,692                                          176       1,868  

Less: Other adjustments to expenses (1)

    222              19       18       153       359       275       1,046  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

  $ 4,142     $ 4,041     $ 1,522     $ 913     $ 2,818     $ 675     $ 474     $ 14,585  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Three Months Ended September 30, 2011

 

    Retail     Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
    Corporate
Benefit
Funding
    Latin
America
    Asia     EMEA     Corporate
& Other
    Total  
    (In millions)  

Total revenues

  $ 6,385     $ 5,118     $ 2,905     $ 1,136     $ 2,671     $ 291     $ 1,947     $ 20,453  

Less: Net investment gains (losses)

    48       (15     83       (8     (34     (220     91       (55

Less: Net derivative gains (losses)

    1,474       1,034       447       (45     168       22       1,096       4,196  

Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses)

    16                                                 16  

Less: Other adjustments to revenues (1)

    4       (36     35       32       (438     (388     483       (308
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating revenues

  $ 4,843     $ 4,135     $ 2,340     $ 1,157     $ 2,975     $ 877     $ 277     $ 16,604  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

  $ 4,656     $ 3,906     $ 1,959     $ 1,146     $ 2,234     $ 408     $ 1,029     $ 15,338  

Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses)

    406                            20                     426  

Less: Goodwill impairment

                                                       

Less: Other adjustments to expenses (1)

    (278     (2     37       175       (432     (363     490       (373
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

  $ 4,528     $ 3,908     $ 1,922     $ 971     $ 2,646     $ 771     $ 539     $ 15,285  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

See definitions of operating revenues and operating expenses for the components of such adjustments.

 

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Consolidated Results—Operating

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
           (In millions)              

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 9,080     $ 9,319     $ (239     (2.6 )% 

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     2,048       1,906       142       7.5

Net investment income

     5,048       4,961       87       1.8

Other revenues

     435       418       17       4.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     16,611       16,604       7      
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     8,995       9,604       (609     (6.3 )% 

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     1,589       1,534       55       3.6

Capitalization of DAC

     (1,301     (1,524     223       14.6

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     1,051       1,162       (111     (9.6 )% 

Amortization of negative VOBA

     (155     (150     (5     (3.3 )% 

Interest expense on debt

     286       327       (41     (12.5 )% 

Other expenses

     4,120       4,332       (212     (4.9 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     14,585       15,285       (700     (4.6 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     579       324       255       78.7
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

     1,447       995       452       45.4

Less: Preferred stock dividends

     30       30             
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings available to common shareholders

   $ 1,417     $ 965     $ 452       46.8
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

Stronger investment results, higher policy fee income and lower catastrophe losses were the primary drivers of the increase in operating earnings. In addition, the prior period included a $117 million charge in connection with the Company’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File. These positive impacts were partially offset by changes in foreign currency exchange rates, which had a $30 million negative impact on results compared to the prior period.

Positive net flows from strong sales led to growth in our investment portfolio which generated higher net investment income of $149 million. Since many of our products are interest spread-based, the growth in our individual life and structured settlement businesses also resulted in a $96 million increase to interest credited expenses. In addition, strong variable annuity sales, primarily in 2011, increased our average separate account assets which resulted in higher policy fee income of $88 million. Commission expenses decreased $149 million primarily driven by lower annuity sales in the U.S, which was largely offset by a corresponding decrease in DAC capitalization.

The low interest rate environment continued to result in lower interest credited expense as we set interest credited rates lower on both new business, as well as certain in-force business with rate resets that are contractually tied to external indices or contain discretionary rate reset provisions. The improving equity markets resulted in lower DAC amortization and higher fee income in our annuity business. However, as a result of the low interest rate environment, investment yields on our fixed maturity securities and securities lending program declined. We also had lower investment returns on our real estate, real estate joint ventures and private equity investments. These negative impacts on yields were partially offset by higher income from equity-linked notes, trading securities, prepayment fees and interest rate derivatives. Changes in market factors discussed above resulted in an $89 million increase in operating earnings.

Lower severity of property & casualty catastrophe claims in the current period increased operating earnings by $76 million as a result of severe storm activity in the prior period. However, this was partially offset by

 

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unfavorable claims experience, primarily in our Asia and Retail segments, which reduced operating earnings by $17 million.

Liability and DAC refinements, primarily in our Retail segment, in both periods resulted in a $22 million increase in operating earnings. In addition, the prior period included $40 million of expenses incurred related to a liquidation plan filed by the Department of Financial Services for ELNY. The third quarter of 2012 included $35 million of employee-related and other costs associated with the Company’s enterprise-wide strategic initiative.

Retail

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
           (In millions)              

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 1,604     $ 1,770     $ (166     (9.4 )% 

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     1,132       1,027       105       10.2

Net investment income

     1,930       1,842       88       4.8

Other revenues

     221       204       17       8.3
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     4,887       4,843       44       0.9
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     2,228       2,523       (295     (11.7 )% 

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     598       617       (19     (3.1 )% 

Capitalization of DAC

     (430     (660     230       34.8

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     438       521       (83     (15.9 )% 

Other expenses

     1,308       1,527       (219     (14.3 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     4,142       4,528       (386     (8.5 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     253       101       152    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

   $ 492     $ 214     $ 278    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts, with the exception of sales data, discussed below are net of income tax.

The Company implemented several changes to product pricing and variable annuity riders as we continued to manage sales volume, focusing on pricing discipline and risk management in this challenging economic environment. These actions resulted in a net decrease in the overall segment sales in the current period, most notably a $4.2 billion, or 47%, decrease in annuity sales. Consistent with the decrease in sales, retail life and annuity net flows were down $4.4 billion compared to the prior period.

Stronger sales of variable annuities in the prior period increased our average separate account assets and, as a result, generated higher asset-based fee revenues. This, coupled with positive net flows from life products, as well as the impact of an increase in allocated equity for the annuity business, bolstered invested assets, increasing net investment income. Business growth also generated higher DAC amortization and consistent with a growing block of variable annuities with guarantees, there was an increase in certain variable annuity liabilities. The reduction of sales levels from the prior period resulted in lower deferrable expenses, which were directly offset by lower DAC capitalization; however, stronger annuity sales in the prior period significantly increased our in-force business contributing to an increase in non-deferrable expenses. The net impact of these items resulted in a $29 million increase in operating earnings.

The improving equity market resulted in lower DAC amortization, higher fee income and a decrease in certain variable annuity liabilities. The low interest rate environment continued to result in lower interest credited expense as we reduced interest credited rates on contracts with discretionary rate reset provisions. Net investment income was also higher primarily from equity-linked notes, prepayment fees and derivatives. The higher

 

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derivatives income was primarily from interest rate floors purchased prior to the onset of the low interest rate environment. The net impact of these items resulted in a $139 million increase in operating earnings.

Our property & casualty business increased operating earnings by $40 million, which resulted from favorable claim experience, mainly due to a decrease in catastrophes. The impact of this can be seen in the favorable change in the combined ratio, including catastrophes to 94.6% in the third quarter of 2012 from 107.6% in the prior period. The combined ratio, excluding catastrophes, was 90.6% in the third quarter of 2012, compared to 87.4% in the prior period. Favorable mortality experience in the traditional life business, primarily driven by a prior period charge in connection with the Company’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File, was partially offset by unfavorable mortality in the variable and universal life and income annuities businesses, resulting in a $17 million increase in operating earnings.

The impact of the reduction in our closed block dividend scale, which was announced in the fourth quarter of 2011, increased operating earnings by $8 million, net of DAC amortization. In addition, certain insurance-related liabilities and DAC refinements in both the current and prior periods resulted in a $29 million increase in operating earnings.

Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
           (In millions)              

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 3,753     $ 3,431     $ 322       9.4

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     166       159       7       4.4

Net investment income

     450       448       2       0.4

Other revenues

     100       97       3       3.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     4,469       4,135       334       8.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     3,449       3,319       130       3.9

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     42       46       (4     (8.7 )% 

Capitalization of DAC

     (38     (47     9       19.1

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     40       43       (3     (7.0 )% 

Interest expense on debt

     1              1    

Other expenses

     547       547             
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     4,041       3,908       133       3.4
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     145       74       71       95.9
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

   $ 283     $ 153     $ 130       85.0
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

Most of our businesses continued to experience growth in the third quarter of 2012, as the economy has continued to slowly improve. Our group term life and disability businesses grew as a result of new sales, and our dental business continued to benefit from strong enrollments and renewals, as well as revenues associated with the implementation of a new dental contract from a large customer that began in the second quarter of 2012. Although we have discontinued selling our long-term care (“LTC”) product, we continue to collect premiums and administer the existing block of business, contributing to asset growth in the segment. Although policy sales for both auto and homeowners remained sluggish, the impact of an increase in the average premium for new policies sold more than offset the decline in policy sales.

 

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Lower severity of our property & casualty catastrophe claims in the current period resulted in an increase of $32 million to operating earnings, while non-catastrophe frequency and severity were essentially flat as compared to the prior period. Favorable morbidity and mortality experience in our dental and life businesses contributed $14 million and $5 million, respectively, to operating earnings. Partially offsetting these positive results was less favorable claims experience in our accidental death and dismemberment business, resulting in a decrease in operating earnings of $7 million. The mortality ratio of our life businesses was 88.1% in the third quarter of 2012 as compared to 98.5% in the prior period. In our life businesses, the impact of a prior period charge related to our use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File contributed $81 million to the increase in operating earnings. Excluding the charge in the prior period, the mortality ratio for the prior period was 89.0%, more in-line with our results for the current period. The impact of the items discussed above related to the property & casualty business can be seen in the favorable change in the combined ratio, excluding catastrophes, to 87.2% in the third quarter of 2012 from 88.6% in the prior period, as well as the favorable change in the combined ratio, including catastrophes, to 87.8% in the third quarter of 2012 from 103.6% in the prior period.

Investment yields were flat reflecting the offsetting effects of increased prepayment fee income and lower returns from our securities lending program and real estate joint ventures. Unlike in the Retail and Corporate Benefit Funding segments, a reduction in investment yield does not necessarily drive a corresponding change in the rates credited on certain insurance liabilities. However, marginally lower crediting rates in the current period resulted in a $5 million increase in operating earnings.

Current period premiums and deposits, together with growth in the securities lending program, mostly offset by a reduction in allocated equity, have resulted in an increase in our average invested assets, contributing a slight increase to operating earnings. Consistent with the growth in average invested assets, primarily in our LTC business, interest credited on long-duration contracts increased by $6 million. In addition, the increase in average premium per policy in both our homeowners and auto businesses improved operating earnings by $8 million.

Corporate Benefit Funding

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
           (In millions)              

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 450     $ 835     $ (385     (46.1 )% 

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     53       69       (16     (23.2 )% 

Net investment income

     1,421       1,375       46       3.3

Other revenues

     64       61       3       4.9
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     1,988       2,340       (352     (15.0 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     1,070       1,459       (389     (26.7 )% 

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     339       327       12       3.7

Capitalization of DAC

     (13     (6     (7  

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     4       4             

Interest expense on debt

     2       2             

Other expenses

     120       136       (16     (11.8 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     1,522       1,922       (400     (20.8 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     163       146       17       11.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

   $ 303     $ 272     $ 31       11.4
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

 

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The sustained low interest rate environment has resulted in underfunded pension plans, which limits our customers’ ability to engage in full pension plan closeout terminations. However, we expect that customers may choose to close out portions of pension plans over time, at costs reflecting current interest rates and availability of capital. While this is predominantly impacting sales in the U.S., sales in the U.K. remain strong. Structured settlement sales have decreased $278 million, before income tax, reflecting a more competitive market and a decrease in demand due to the low interest rate environment. Changes in premiums for these businesses were almost entirely offset by the related change in policyholder benefits. The impact of current period premiums, deposits, and funding agreement issuances contributed to an increase in invested assets, partially offset by a decrease in allocated equity, resulting in an increase of $85 million to operating earnings. The growth in premiums, deposits and funding agreement issuances resulted in a corresponding increase in interest credited on certain insurance liabilities, which decreased operating earnings by $28 million.

Expenses declined largely as a result of disciplined spending and a decrease in sales volume-related costs, such as commissions and premium taxes. A decrease in structured settlement commissions was partially offset by an increase in commissions from sales of funding agreements. The decrease in expenses was partially offset by related changes in DAC capitalization and certain revenue items. The decrease in expenses coupled with an increase in fees generated by separate account deposits, increased operating earnings by $6 million.

The low interest rate environment continued to impact our investment returns, as well as our interest credited on certain insurance liabilities. We experienced lower investment returns on our fixed maturity securities and our securities lending program, as well as on our private equity investments, which were partially offset by higher mortgage prepayment fees and increased earnings on interest rate derivatives. Many of our funding agreement and guaranteed interest contract liabilities have interest credited rates that are contractually tied to external indices and, as a result, interest credited rates on new business were set lower, as were the rates on existing business with terms that can fluctuate. The positive impact of lower interest credited rates was partially offset by an increase in interest credited expense resulting from the impact of derivatives that are used to hedge certain liabilities. The net impact of lower interest credited expense and lower investment returns resulted in a decrease in operating earnings of $37 million.

Mortality experience did not have a material impact on our financial results this period; however, the impact of a charge in the prior period in connection with the Company’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File in our post-retirement benefit business resulted in an increase in operating earnings of $8 million.

 

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Latin America

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
           (In millions)              

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 610     $ 672     $ (62     (9.2 )% 

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     189       188       1       0.5

Net investment income

     299       289       10       3.5

Other revenues

     3       8       (5     (62.5 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     1,101       1,157       (56     (4.8 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     507       576       (69     (12.0 )% 

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     99       95       4       4.2

Capitalization of DAC

     (83     (78     (5     (6.4 )% 

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     42       45       (3     (6.7 )% 

Amortization of negative VOBA

     (1            (1  

Interest expense on debt

     (4            (4  

Other expenses

     353       333       20       6.0
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     913       971       (58     (6.0 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     36       45       (9     (20.0 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

   $ 152     $ 141     $ 11       7.8
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

Operating earnings increased by $11 million over the prior period. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates reduced operating earnings by $10 million for the third quarter of 2012 compared to the prior period.

Latin America experienced sales growth driven primarily by group and retirement products in Mexico and Brazil and by universal life products in Mexico, as well as increased accident and health sales in Argentina through our direct marketing channel. The resulting premium growth was more than offset by a decrease in the annuity premiums in Chile due to a contract that was not renewed by the customer. These premium decreases for these products were almost entirely offset by the related change in policyholder benefits. The growth in our businesses drove an increase in average invested assets, which generated higher net investment income and higher policy fee income, partially offset by an increase in interest credited to policyholders. The increase in sales also generated higher commission expense, which was partially offset by a corresponding increase in DAC capitalization. The items discussed above were the primary drivers of a $7 million improvement in operating earnings.

The current period results include various favorable income tax items of $13 million in Argentina, Mexico and Chile. In addition, the current period results include liability refinements which were mostly offset by a write-off of capitalized software, both in Mexico.

 

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Asia

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
     (In millions)        

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 2,112     $ 1,967     $ 145       7.4

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     388       357       31       8.7

Net investment income

     709       643       66       10.3

Other revenues

     4       8       (4     (50.0 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     3,213       2,975       238       8.0
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     1,455       1,325       130       9.8

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     468       414       54       13.0

Capitalization of DAC

     (579     (576     (3     (0.5 )% 

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     396       407       (11     (2.7 )% 

Amortization of negative VOBA

     (128     (137     9       6.6

Other expenses

     1,206       1,213       (7     (0.6 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     2,818       2,646       172       6.5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     136       107       29       27.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

   $ 259     $ 222     $ 37       16.7
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

Operating earnings increased by $37 million over the prior period. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates reduced operating earnings by $5 million for the third quarter of 2012 compared to the prior period.

Asia experienced sales growth in ordinary and universal life products in Japan, resulting in higher premiums and universal life fees, and variable life products in Korea, which drove higher fees over the prior period. This was partially offset by a decline in life product sales and persistency in Hong Kong, which reduced premiums. Changes in premiums for these businesses were partially offset by related changes in policyholder benefits. In addition, average invested assets increased over the prior period, reflecting positive cash flows from our annuity business in Japan generating an increase in net investment income, which was partially offset by an increase in interest credited to policyholders. The combined impact of the items discussed above improved operating earnings by $69 million.

The repositioning of the Japan investment portfolio to longer duration and higher yielding investments contributed to an increase in investment yields. In addition, yields improved as a result of growth in the Australian dollar annuity business, reflecting the investment of funds in higher yielding Australian dollar investments, as well as higher returns on our real estate investments. However, these increases in yields were slightly offset by lower joint venture income from China resulting in a net increase to operating earnings of $5 million.

Changes in actuarial assumptions in Hong Kong resulted in an $8 million decrease in operating earnings.

Unfavorable claims experience decreased operating earnings by $11 million. Prior period results in Japan included a $12 million benefit from the release of previously recorded liabilities and $5 million of operating expenses related to the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

 

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EMEA

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
     (In millions)        

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 536     $ 630     $ (94     (14.9 )% 

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     82       67       15       22.4

Net investment income

     122       151       (29     (19.2 )% 

Other revenues

     35       29       6       20.7
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     775       877       (102     (11.6 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     255       341       (86     (25.2 )% 

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     32       35       (3     (8.6 )% 

Capitalization of DAC

     (158     (157     (1     (0.6 )% 

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     130       142       (12     (8.5 )% 

Amortization of negative VOBA

     (26     (13     (13     (100.0 )% 

Interest expense on debt

     2              2    

Other expenses

     440       423       17       4.0
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     675       771       (96     (12.5 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     38       41       (3     (7.3 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

   $ 62     $ 65     $ (3     (4.6 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

Operating earnings decreased by $3 million over the prior period. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates reduced operating earnings by $15 million for the third quarter of 2012 compared to the prior period and resulted in significant variances in the financial statement line items. The fourth quarter 2011 purchase of a Turkish life insurance and pension company increased operating earnings by $10 million.

The segment continued to experience business growth; however, certain European countries in the region continued to be affected by the challenging economic environment. Sales increased across all major product lines and all regions. The disposal of certain closed blocks of business in the U.K. reduced operating earnings and resulted in lower net investment income, partially offset by the release of certain liabilities. Dividends paid to MetLife, Inc. at the end of 2011 decreased net investment income, as a result of lower average invested assets. Consistent with business growth, operating expenses increased, most notably due to higher compensation and administrative costs. The items discussed above, on a combined basis, resulted in a $6 million decrease in operating earnings.

Current period results benefited by $6 million due to certain income tax items in both periods.

 

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Corporate & Other

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
     (In millions)        

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 15     $ 14     $ 1       7.1

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     38       39       (1     (2.6 )% 

Net investment income

     117       213       (96     (45.1 )% 

Other revenues

     8       11       (3     (27.3 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     178       277       (99     (35.7 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     31       61       (30     (49.2 )% 

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     11              11    

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     1              1    

Interest expense on debt

     285       325       (40     (12.3 )% 

Other expenses

     146       153       (7     (4.6 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     474       539       (65     (12.1 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     (192     (190     (2     (1.1 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

     (104     (72     (32     (44.4 )% 

Less: Preferred stock dividends

     30       30             
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings available to common shareholders

   $ (134   $ (102   $ (32     (31.4 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

Operating earnings available to common shareholders and operating earnings each decreased $32 million, primarily due to lower net investment income, lower operating earnings on invested assets that were funded using Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) advances and lower tax credits in the third quarter of 2012. These decreases were partially offset by higher earnings from the assumed reinsurance of a variable annuity business and lower interest expense on debt.

Net investment income decreased $32 million, excluding the FHLB which is discussed below, driven by an increase in the amount credited to the segments due to growth in the economic capital managed by Corporate & Other on their behalf, lower returns on our alternative and private equity investments and lower earnings on credit sensitive derivatives.

Operating earnings on invested assets that were funded using FHLB advances decreased $10 million, reflected by decreases in net investment income and interest expense on debt, due to the transfer of $3.8 billion of FHLB advances and underlying assets from MetLife Bank to the Corporate Benefit Funding segment, in April 2012.

Corporate & Other benefits from the impact of certain permanent tax differences, including non-taxable investment income and tax credits for investments in low income housing. As a result, our effective tax rates differ from the U.S. statutory rate of 35%. In the third quarter of 2012, we had lower utilization of tax preferenced investments which decreased operating earnings by $10 million from the prior period.

In the prior period, the Company incurred $40 million of expenses related to the liquidation plan filed by the Department of Financial Services for ELNY. In the third quarter of 2012, the Company incurred $35 million of employee-related and other costs associated with the Company’s enterprise-wide strategic initiative and $10 million of higher other employee-related charges.

 

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Operating earnings associated with the assumed reinsurance of certain variable annuity products from our former operating joint venture in Japan increased $19 million. This was primarily due to a decrease in benefit liabilities resulting from higher returns in the underlying funds.

Interest expense on debt, excluding the FHLB which is discussed above, decreased $8 million primarily due to the maturity of $750 million in long-term debt in December 2011.

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012 Compared with the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011

Consolidated Results

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
     (In millions)        

Revenues

        

Premiums

   $ 27,386     $ 27,190     $ 196       0.7

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     6,306       5,856       450       7.7

Net investment income

     16,436       14,658       1,778       12.1

Other revenues

     1,445       1,878       (433     (23.1 )% 

Net investment gains (losses)

     (152     (309     157       50.8

Net derivative gains (losses)

     (604     4,233       (4,837  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total revenues

     50,817       53,506       (2,689     (5.0 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Expenses

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     28,008       27,506       502       1.8

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     5,681       4,104       1,577       38.4

Goodwill impairment

     1,868              1,868    

Capitalization of DAC

     (3,981     (4,158     177       4.3

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     3,201       3,911       (710     (18.2 )% 

Amortization of negative VOBA

     (506     (536     30       5.6

Interest expense on debt

     1,026       1,260       (234     (18.6 )% 

Other expenses

     13,601       13,510       91       0.7
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total expenses

     48,898       45,597       3,301       7.2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income tax

     1,919       7,909       (5,990     (75.7 )% 

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     710       2,481       (1,771     (71.4 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

     1,209       5,428       (4,219     (77.7 )% 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax

     17       (1     18    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Net income (loss)

     1,226       5,427       (4,201     (77.4 )% 

Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

     29       (6     35    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Net income (loss) attributable to MetLife, Inc.

     1,197       5,433       (4,236     (78.0 )% 

Less: Preferred stock dividends

     91       91             

 Preferred stock redemption premium

            146       (146     (100.0 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders

   $ 1,106     $ 5,196     $ (4,090     (78.7 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, income (loss) from continuing operations, before provision for income tax, decreased $6.0 billion ($4.2 billion, net of income tax) from the prior period primarily driven by an unfavorable change in net derivative gains (losses) and a goodwill impairment charge in the current period.

 

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The variable annuity embedded derivatives and associated freestanding derivative hedges are collectively referred to as “VA program derivatives” in the following table. All other derivatives that are economic hedges of certain invested assets and insurance liabilities are referred to as “non-VA program derivatives” in the following table. The table below presents the impact on net derivative gains (losses) from non-VA program derivatives and VA program derivatives:

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
       
     2012     2011     Change  
     (In millions)  

Non-VA program derivatives

      

Interest rate

   $ 453     $ 2,194     $ (1,741

Foreign currency

     (161     168       (329

Credit

     (105     144       (249

Equity

     1       6       (5

Non-VA embedded derivatives

     (79     20       (99
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total non-VA program derivatives

     109       2,532       (2,423
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

VA program derivatives

      

Market and other risks in embedded derivatives

     1,922       (3,764     5,686  

Nonperformance risk on embedded derivatives

     (1,170     1,985       (3,155
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total embedded derivatives

     752       (1,779     2,531  

Freestanding derivatives hedging embedded derivatives

     (1,465     3,480       (4,945
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total VA program derivatives

     (713     1,701       (2,414
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net derivative gains (losses)

   $ (604   $ 4,233     $ (4,837
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The unfavorable change in net derivative gains (losses) on non-VA program derivatives was $2.4 billion ($1.6 billion, net of income tax). This was primarily due to interest rates decreasing less in the current period than in the prior period, unfavorably impacting receive-fixed interest rate swaps, long interest rate floors and receiver swaptions. These freestanding derivatives are primarily hedging long duration liability portfolios. The weakening of the U.S. dollar and Japanese yen relative to other key currencies unfavorably impacted foreign currency swaps and forwards, which primarily hedge certain foreign denominated bonds. Additionally, the narrowing of credit spreads in the current period compared to widening in the prior period unfavorably impacted credit default swaps hedging certain bonds. Because certain of these hedging strategies are not designated or do not qualify as accounting hedges, the changes in the estimated fair value of these freestanding derivatives are recognized in net derivative gains (losses) without an offsetting gain or loss recognized in earnings for the item being hedged.

The unfavorable change in net derivative gains (losses) on VA program derivatives was $2.4 billion ($1.6 billion, net of income tax). This was due to an unfavorable change of $3.2 billion ($2.1 billion, net of income tax) related to the change in the nonperformance risk adjustment on embedded derivatives, partially offset by a favorable change of $741 million ($482 million, net of income tax) on market and other risks in embedded derivatives, net of the impact of freestanding derivatives hedging those risks.

The favorable change of $741 million is comprised of a $4.9 billion ($3.2 billion, net of income tax) unfavorable change in freestanding derivatives that hedge market risks in embedded derivatives, which was more than offset by a $5.7 billion ($3.7 billion, net of income tax) favorable change in market and other risks in our embedded derivatives, which was driven by changes in market factors. Changes in non-market factors, which are unhedged, contributed to a favorable change of $491 million. The primary changes in market factors are summarized as follows:

 

   

Equity index levels increased in the current period but decreased in the prior period, and equity volatility decreased in the current period but was mixed in the prior period. These changes contributed to an unfavorable change in our freestanding derivatives and favorable changes in our embedded derivatives.

 

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Long-term interest rates decreased less in the current period than in the prior period and contributed to an unfavorable change in our freestanding derivatives and favorable changes in our embedded derivatives.

The decrease in net investment losses primarily reflects a decrease in impairments on fixed maturity and equity securities, primarily on Greece sovereign debt as a result of the July 2011 announcement of a debt exchange program, combined with increases in gains on fixed maturity securities sold in connection with the planned disposition of MetLife Bank, partially offset by a decrease in gains on sales of certain real estate investments and reductions to the mortgage loan valuation allowance in the prior period.

In addition, the current period includes a $1.9 billion ($1.6 billion, net of income tax) non-cash charge for goodwill impairment associated with our U.S. retail annuities business.

Income (loss) from continuing operations, before provision for income tax, related to the Divested Businesses, excluding net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), decreased $590 million to a loss of $504 million during the first nine months of 2012 compared to a gain of $86 million in the prior period. Included in this loss was a decrease in total revenues of $479 million and an increase in total expenses of $111 million.

Income tax expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 was $710 million, or 37% of income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income tax, compared with income tax expense of $2.5 billion, or 31% of income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income tax, for the prior period. The Company’s 2012 and 2011 effective tax rates differ from the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily due to the impact of certain permanent tax differences, including non-taxable investment income and tax credits for investments in low income housing, in relation to income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income tax, as well as certain foreign permanent tax differences. In addition, as previously mentioned, the current period includes a $1.9 billion ($1.6 billion, net of income tax) non-cash charge for goodwill impairment. The tax benefit associated with this charge is limited to $247 million on the associated tax goodwill.

As more fully described in the discussion of performance measures above, we use operating earnings, which does not equate to income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, as determined in accordance with GAAP, to analyze our performance, evaluate segment performance, and allocate resources. We believe that the presentation of operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders, as we measure it for management purposes, enhances the understanding of our performance by highlighting the results of operations and the underlying profitability drivers of the business. Operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders should not be viewed as substitutes for GAAP income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, and GAAP net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders, respectively. Operating earnings available to common shareholders increased $880 million, net of income tax, to $4.3 billion, net of income tax, for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 from $3.4 million, net of income tax, in the prior period.

 

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Reconciliation of income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, to operating earnings available to common shareholders

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012

 

    Retail     Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
    Corporate
Benefit
Funding
    Latin
America
    Asia     EMEA     Corporate
& Other
    Total  
    (In millions)  

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

  $ 23      $ 795      $ 843      $ 348      $ 708      $ 265      $ (1,773   $ 1,209   

Less: Net investment gains (losses)

    178        11        21        (12     (168     37        (219     (152

Less: Net derivative gains (losses)

    637        99        (149     42        (11     56        (1,278     (604

Less: Goodwill impairment

    (1,692                                        (176     (1,868

Less: Other adjustments to continuing operations (1)

    (622     (107     11        (153     (11     (22     (715     (1,619

Less: Provision for income tax (expense) benefit

    153        (1     41        36        59        (18     778        1,048   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating earnings

  $ 1,369      $ 793      $ 919      $ 435      $ 839      $ 212        (163     4,404   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

Less: Preferred stock dividends

                91        91   
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating earnings available to common shareholders

              $ (254   $ 4,313   
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011

 

    Retail     Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
    Corporate
Benefit
Funding
    Latin
America
    Asia     EMEA     Corporate
& Other
    Total  
    (In millions)  

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax

  $ 1,917      $ 1,283      $ 1,157      $ 104      $ 642      $ (35   $ 360      $ 5,428   

Less: Net investment gains (losses)

    134        (16     85        (1     (196     (304     (11     (309

Less: Net derivative gains (losses)

    1,759        1,089        280        (42     229        29        889        4,233   

Less: Goodwill impairment

                                                       

Less: Other adjustments to continuing operations (1)

    (317     (101     53        (327     2        (71     (154     (915

Less: Provision for income tax (expense) benefit

    (550     (340     (147     83        (14     107        (244     (1,105
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating earnings

  $ 891      $ 651      $ 886      $ 391      $ 621      $ 204        (120     3,524   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

Less: Preferred stock dividends

                91        91   
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating earnings available to common shareholders

              $ (211   $ 3,433   
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

See definitions of operating revenues and operating expenses for the components of such adjustments.

 

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Reconciliation of GAAP revenues to operating revenues and GAAP expenses to operating expenses

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012

 

    Retail     Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
    Corporate
Benefit
Funding
    Latin
America
    Asia     EMEA     Corporate
& Other
    Total  
    (In millions)  

Total revenues

  $ 15,315     $ 13,166     $ 6,014     $ 3,642     $ 9,605     $ 3,287     $ (212   $ 50,817  

Less: Net investment gains (losses)

    178       11       21       (12     (168     37       (219     (152

Less: Net derivative gains (losses)

    637       99       (149     42       (11     56       (1,278     (604

Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses)

                                (4     14              10  

Less: Other adjustments to revenues (1)

    (51     (107     55       191       304       628       551       1,571  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating revenues

  $ 14,551     $ 13,163     $ 6,087     $ 3,421     $ 9,484     $ 2,552     $ 734     $ 49,992  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

  $ 14,742     $ 11,969     $ 4,717     $ 3,208     $ 8,519     $ 2,888     $ 2,855     $ 48,898  

Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses)

    61                                   18              79  

Less: Goodwill impairment

    1,692                                          176       1,868  

Less: Other adjustments to expenses (1)

    510              44       344       311       646       1,266       3,121  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

  $ 12,479     $ 11,969     $ 4,673     $ 2,864     $ 8,208     $ 2,224     $ 1,413     $ 43,830  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011

 

    Retail     Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
    Corporate
Benefit
Funding
    Latin
America
    Asia     EMEA     Corporate
& Other
    Total  
    (In millions)  

Total revenues

  $ 16,046     $ 13,518     $ 7,138     $ 3,301     $ 8,288     $ 2,268     $ 2,947     $ 53,506  

Less: Net investment gains (losses)

    134       (16     85       (1     (196     (304     (11     (309

Less: Net derivative gains (losses)

    1,759       1,089       280       (42     229       29       889       4,233  

Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses)

    14                                                 14  

Less: Other adjustments to revenues (1)

    14       (103     109       119       (366     (128     1,178       823  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating revenues

  $ 14,125     $ 12,548     $ 6,664     $ 3,225     $ 8,621     $ 2,671     $ 891     $ 48,745  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

  $ 13,136     $ 11,570     $ 5,356     $ 3,161     $ 7,334     $ 2,280     $ 2,760     $ 45,597  

Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses)

    490                            20                     510  

Less: Goodwill impairment

                                                       

Less: Other adjustments to expenses (1)

    (145     (2     56       446       (388     (57     1,332       1,242  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

  $ 12,791     $ 11,572     $ 5,300     $ 2,715     $ 7,702     $ 2,337     $ 1,428     $ 43,845  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

See definitions of operating revenues and operating expenses for the components of such adjustments.

 

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Consolidated Results—Operating

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
     (In millions)        

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 27,326     $ 27,121     $ 205       0.8

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     6,056       5,646       410       7.3

Net investment income

     15,297       14,746       551       3.7

Other revenues

     1,313       1,232       81       6.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     49,992       48,745       1,247       2.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     27,066       27,315       (249     (0.9 )% 

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     4,653       4,521       132       2.9

Capitalization of DAC

     (3,976     (4,151     175       4.2

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     3,231       3,295       (64     (1.9 )% 

Amortization of negative VOBA

     (456     (476     20       4.2

Interest expense on debt

     898       978       (80     (8.2 )% 

Other expenses

     12,414       12,363       51       0.4
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     43,830       43,845       (15     (0.0 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     1,758       1,376       382       27.8
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

     4,404       3,524       880       25.0

Less: Preferred stock dividends

     91       91             
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings available to common shareholders

   $ 4,313     $ 3,433     $ 880       25.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

Higher policy fee income, stronger investment results and favorable claims experience were the primary drivers of the increase in operating earnings. In addition, the prior period included a $117 million charge in connection with the Company’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File. These positive impacts on operating earnings were partially offset by a $52 million charge taken in the first quarter of 2012 representing a multi–state examination payment related to unclaimed property and MetLife’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File to identify potential life insurance claims, as well as the expected acceleration of benefit payments to policyholders under the settlements. In addition, changes in foreign currency exchange rates had a $61 million negative impact on results compared to the prior period.

We benefited from strong sales, as well as growth and higher persistency in our business across many of our products. In addition, as a result of stronger sales of variable annuities in 2011, we experienced growth in both our average separate account assets and our investment portfolio. The growth in the average separate account assets generated higher policy fee income of $298 million. The growth in our investment portfolio generated higher net investment income of $318 million. Since many of our products are interest spread–based, the growth in our individual life and structured settlement businesses also resulted in a $275 million increase to interest credited expenses. These increased sales also generated an increase in commissions which was partially offset by an increase in related DAC capitalization which combined, resulted in a $36 million increase to operating earnings. In addition, other non-variable expenses increased $177 million and our annuity business growth in 2011 generated higher DAC amortization of $92 million in the current period. Higher premiums partially offset by higher policyholder benefits in our international segments improved operating earnings by $40 million.

 

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The low interest rate environment continued to result in lower interest credited expense as we set interest credited rates lower on both new business, as well as on certain in-force business with rate resets that are contractually tied to external indices or contain discretionary rate reset provisions. The improving equity markets resulted in lower DAC amortization and higher fee income in our annuity business. Various market factors drove a reduction in investment yields and a decrease in net investment income. The unfavorable impact of the low interest rate environment on our fixed maturity securities and securities lending program combined with lower returns on our real estate investments and lower prepayment fees negatively impacted yields; however, this was partially offset by the favorable impact of other market factors, including higher income from equity-linked notes, trading securities, real estate joint ventures and interest rate derivatives. Changes in market factors discussed above resulted in a $281 million increase in operating earnings.

Lower severity of property & casualty catastrophe claims in the current period increased operating earnings by $170 million as a result of severe storm activity in the prior period. Favorable claims experience across many of our products was more than offset by less favorable mortality results in our Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment and unfavorable mortality in our Asia segment, resulting in a slight decrease in operating earnings.

Liability and DAC refinements, primarily from our Retail, Asia and EMEA segments, in both periods resulted in a $79 million net increase in operating earnings. In addition, the prior period included $40 million of expenses incurred related to a liquidation plan filed by the Department of Financial Services for ELNY and $37 million of insurance claims and operating expenses related to the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan. The current period included $66 million of employee–related and other costs associated with the Company’s enterprise-wide strategic initiative.

The Company benefited from the impact of certain permanent tax differences, including non-taxable investment income and tax credits for investments in low income housing. As a result, our effective tax rates differ from the U.S. statutory rate of 35%. In the first nine months of 2012, we benefited primarily from higher utilization of tax preferenced investments, which improved operating earnings by $60 million over the prior period.

Retail

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
     (In millions)        

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 4,804     $ 4,907     $ (103     (2.1 )% 

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     3,365       3,050       315       10.3

Net investment income

     5,735       5,585       150       2.7

Other revenues

     647       583       64       11.0
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     14,551       14,125       426       3.0
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     6,668       7,013       (345     (4.9 )% 

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     1,784       1,803       (19     (1.1 )% 

Capitalization of DAC

     (1,352     (1,728     376       21.8

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     1,319       1,363       (44     (3.2 )% 

Other expenses

     4,060       4,340       (280     (6.5 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     12,479       12,791       (312     (2.4 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     703       443       260       58.7
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

   $ 1,369     $ 891     $ 478       53.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

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Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

Stronger sales of variable annuities in the prior period increased our average separate account assets and, as a result, generated higher asset-based fee revenues. This, coupled with positive net flows from life products as well as the impact of an increase in allocated equity for annuities, led to growth in the investment portfolio, increasing net investment income. Consistent with a growing block of variable annuities with guarantees, there was an increase in certain variable annuity liabilities. Business growth in 2011 also generated higher interest credited on certain insurance liabilities and DAC amortization in the current period. The reduction of sales levels from the prior period resulted in lower deferrable expenses, which were directly offset by lower DAC capitalization. However, stronger annuity sales in the prior period significantly increased our in-force business contributing to an increase in non-deferrable expenses. The net impact of these items resulted in a $124 million increase in operating earnings.

The improving equity market resulted in lower DAC amortization, higher fee income and a decrease in certain variable annuity liabilities. The low interest rate environment continued to result in lower interest credited expense, as we reduced interest credited rates on contracts with discretionary rate reset provisions. Partially offsetting these favorable variances was a decrease in investment yields and related net investment income. Lower interest rates negatively impacted earnings on fixed maturity securities and mortgage loan yields. The foregoing, combined with lower returns on our private equity investments, was partially offset by higher income from derivatives. The higher derivatives income was primarily from interest rate floors purchased prior to the onset of the low interest rate environment. The net impact of these items resulted in a $140 million increase in operating earnings.

Our property & casualty business increased operating earnings by $131 million, resulting from favorable claim experience, mainly due to a decrease in catastrophes. The impact of this can be seen in the favorable change in the combined ratio, including catastrophes to 97.1% in 2012 from 112.7% in 2011. The combined ratio, excluding catastrophes was 86.2% in 2012, compared to 88.2% in the prior period. Favorable mortality experience in the traditional life business was partially offset by unfavorable mortality experience in the variable and universal life and income annuities businesses resulting in a $7 million increase in operating earnings. The current period results included a charge of $26 million for the expected acceleration of benefit payments to policyholders under a multi-state examination related to unclaimed property. The prior period results included a charge of $28 million, in connection with the Company’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File.

The impact of the reduction in our closed block dividend scale, which was announced in the fourth quarter of 2011, increased operating earnings by $23 million, net of DAC amortization. In addition, certain insurance-related liabilities and DAC refinements in both the current and prior periods resulted in a $45 million increase in operating earnings.

 

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Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
     (In millions)        

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 11,021     $ 10,458     $ 563       5.4

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     497       473       24       5.1

Net investment income

     1,325       1,330       (5     (0.4 )% 

Other revenues

     320       287       33       11.5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     13,163       12,548       615       4.9
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     10,153       9,803       350       3.6

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     127       134       (7     (5.2 )% 

Capitalization of DAC

     (102     (144     42       29.2

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     98       140       (42     (30.0 )% 

Interest expense on debt

     1              1    

Other expenses

     1,692       1,639       53       3.2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     11,969       11,572       397       3.4
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     401       325       76       23.4
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

   $ 793     $ 651     $ 142       21.8
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

Lower severity of property & casualty catastrophe claims in the current period increased operating earnings by $59 million, mainly as a result of severe storm activity in the second quarter of 2011. While property & casualty non-catastrophe claims experience was relatively flat period over period, an increase in severity of $21 million, primarily in the auto business, was mostly offset by lower claims frequency of $19 million in both our auto and homeowners businesses. A decrease in claims in our dental, disability and accidental death and dismemberment businesses resulted in a $49 million increase to operating earnings. Less favorable mortality experience in our life businesses resulted in a decrease in operating earnings of $50 million. The mortality ratio for our life businesses has returned to a more historically representative level of 88.2% in 2012, from a near record low of 86.4% in the prior period, as adjusted for a charge in the prior period. In our life businesses, the impact of a prior period charge related to our use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File contributed $81 million to the increase in operating earnings. The impact of the items discussed above related to the property & casualty business can be seen in the favorable change in the combined ratio, excluding catastrophes, to 87.9% in 2012 from 89.4% in the prior period, as well as the favorable change in the combined ratio, including catastrophes, to 92.9% in 2012 from 103.6% in the prior period.

Current period premiums and deposits, together with growth in the securities lending program, partially offset by a reduction in allocated equity, have resulted in an increase in our average invested assets, contributing $17 million to operating earnings. Consistent with the growth in average invested assets, primarily in our LTC business, interest credited on long-duration contracts increased by $21 million. Increased expenses associated with the implementation of the new dental contract in the second quarter of 2012, along with growth across our businesses, reduced operating earnings by $10 million. An increase in the average premium per policy in both our auto and homeowners businesses, as well as an increase in exposures, improved operating earnings by $26 million. Exposures represent each automobile for the auto line of business and each residence for the property line of business.

 

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The low interest rate environment and lower returns in the real estate market resulted in a decline in investment yields on our fixed maturity securities, securities lending program and real estate joint ventures. Unlike in the Retail and Corporate Benefit Funding segments, a reduction in investment yield does not necessarily drive a corresponding change in the rates credited on certain insurance liabilities. The reduction in investment yield, partially offset by marginally lower crediting rates in the current period, resulted in a $7 million decrease in operating earnings.

Corporate Benefit Funding

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
     (In millions)        

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 1,480     $ 2,132     $ (652     (30.6 )% 

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     161       181       (20     (11.0 )% 

Net investment income

     4,253       4,169       84       2.0

Other revenues

     193       182       11       6.0
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     6,087       6,664       (577     (8.7 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     3,293       3,925       (632     (16.1 )% 

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     1,016       993       23       2.3

Capitalization of DAC

     (28     (23     (5     (21.7 )% 

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     18       14       4       28.6

Interest expense on debt

     6       7       (1     (14.3 )% 

Other expenses

     368       384       (16     (4.2 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     4,673       5,300       (627     (11.8 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     495       478       17       3.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

   $ 919     $ 886     $ 33       3.7
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

The impact of current year premiums, deposits, and funding agreement issuances contributed to an increase in invested assets, partially offset by a decrease in allocated equity, resulting in an increase of $114 million to operating earnings. The growth in premiums, deposits and funding agreement issuances resulted in a corresponding increase in interest credited on certain insurance liabilities, which decreased operating earnings by $88 million.

Expenses declined largely as a result of disciplined spending and a decrease in sales volume-related costs, such as commissions and premium taxes. A decrease in structured settlement commissions was partially offset by an increase in commissions from sales of funding agreements. The decrease in expenses was partially offset by related changes in DAC capitalization and certain revenue items. The decrease in expenses coupled with an increase in fees generated by separate account deposits, increased operating earnings by $10 million.

The low interest rate environment continued to impact our investment returns, as well as our interest credited on certain insurance liabilities. Lower investment returns on our fixed maturity securities and our securities lending program were partially offset by increased earnings on interest rate derivatives. Many of our funding agreement and guaranteed interest contract liabilities have interest credited rates that are contractually tied to external indices and, as a result, interest credited rates on new business were set lower, as were the rates on existing business with terms that can fluctuate. The positive impact of lower interest credited rates was partially offset by an increase in interest credited expense resulting from the impact of derivatives that are used to hedge

 

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certain liabilities. The net impact of lower interest credited expense and lower investment returns resulted in a decrease in operating earnings of $12 million.

The net impact of insurance liability refinements and a prior period charge in connection with the Company’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File in our post-retirement benefit business, partially offset by lower mortality experience, resulted in an increase in operating earnings of $13 million.

Latin America

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
     (In millions)        

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 1,948     $ 1,913     $ 35       1.8

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     581       571       10       1.8

Net investment income

     881       727       154       21.2

Other revenues

     11       14       (3     (21.4 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     3,421       3,225       196       6.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     1,667       1,534       133       8.7

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     289       280       9       3.2

Capitalization of DAC

     (238     (231     (7     (3.0 )% 

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     151       154       (3     (1.9 )% 

Amortization of negative VOBA

     (4     (4           

Interest expense on debt

     (3     1       (4  

Other expenses

     1,002       981       21       2.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     2,864       2,715       149       5.5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     122       119       3       2.5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

   $ 435     $ 391     $ 44       11.3
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

Operating earnings increased by $44 million over the prior period. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates reduced operating earnings by $32 million for the first nine months of 2012 compared to the prior period.

Latin America experienced strong sales growth driven primarily by retirement products in Mexico, Chile and Brazil and by accident and health products in Argentina and Chile. Changes in premiums for these products were almost entirely offset by the related changes in policyholder benefits. The growth in our businesses drove an increase in average invested assets, which generated higher net investment income and higher policy fee income, partially offset by an increase in interest credited to policyholders. The increase in sales also generated higher commission expense, which was partially offset by a corresponding increase in DAC capitalization. The items discussed above were the primary drivers of a $48 million improvement in operating earnings.

The impact of inflation increased operating earnings by $19 million. An increase in investment yields reflects the period over period change from lower yields in the prior period due to the impact of changes in assumptions for measuring the effects of inflation on certain inflation-indexed investments, primarily in Chile, offset by lower inflation on inflation-linked investments, mainly in Chile and Brazil. The decrease in net investment income from lower inflation was substantially offset by a corresponding decrease in policyholder benefits and lower interest credited expense.

 

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Current period results include various favorable income tax items of $13 million in Argentina, Mexico and Chile. In addition, the current period results benefited from liability reserve refinements of $15 million in Chile and Mexico which were entirely offset by an unfavorable DAC capitalization adjustment of $8 million in Chile and a write-off of capitalized software of $7 million in Mexico.

Asia

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
     (In millions)        

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 6,215     $ 5,774     $ 441       7.6

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     1,102       1,020       82       8.0

Net investment income

     2,150       1,799       351       19.5

Other revenues

     17       28       (11     (39.3 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     9,484       8,621       863       10.0
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     4,250       3,931       319       8.1

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     1,323       1,193       130       10.9

Capitalization of DAC

     (1,721     (1,530     (191     (12.5 )% 

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     1,188       1,163       25       2.1

Amortization of negative VOBA

     (387     (426     39       9.2

Interest expense on debt

     5              5    

Other expenses

     3,550       3,371       179       5.3
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     8,208       7,702       506       6.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     437       298       139       46.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

   $ 839     $ 621     $ 218       35.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

Operating earnings increased by $218 million over the prior period. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates reduced operating earnings by $4 million for the first nine months of 2012 compared to the prior period.

Asia experienced sales growth in ordinary and universal life products in Japan, resulting in higher premiums and universal life fees and higher sales of variable life products in Korea which drove higher fees over the prior period. This was partially offset by a decline in life product sales and persistency in Hong Kong, which reduced premiums. Changes in premiums for these businesses were almost entirely offset by the related change in policyholder benefits. In addition, average invested assets increased over the prior period, reflecting positive cash flows from our annuity business in Japan generating increases in both net investment income and policy fee income, partially offset by an increase in interest credited to policyholders. The increase in sales also generated higher commissions and other sales-related expenses, which were partially offset by an increase in related DAC capitalization. The items discussed above were the primary drivers of a $109 million improvement in operating earnings.

The repositioning of the Japan investment portfolio to longer duration and higher yielding investments contributed to an increase in investment yields. In addition, yields improved as a result of growth in the Australian dollar annuity business, reflecting the investment of funds in higher yielding Australian dollar investments, as well as higher returns on our private equity investments. These increases in yields improved net investment income and increased operating earnings by $96 million.

 

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The positive impact of liability refinements in both the current and prior periods was partially offset by unfavorable changes in actuarial assumptions in the current period which, combined, resulted in an $11 million net increase to operating earnings.

Unfavorable claims experience in the current period decreased operating earnings by $19 million. Prior period results in Japan included $37 million of insurance claims and operating expenses related to the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami. In addition, prior period results also included a tax benefit of $12 million.

EMEA

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
     (In millions)        

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 1,815     $ 1,896     $ (81     (4.3 )% 

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     233       236       (3     (1.3 )% 

Net investment income

     406       455       (49     (10.8 )% 

Other revenues

     98       84       14       16.7
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     2,552       2,671       (119     (4.5 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     941       1,008       (67     (6.6 )% 

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     91       118       (27     (22.9 )% 

Capitalization of DAC

     (535     (495     (40     (8.1 )% 

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     456       461       (5     (1.1 )% 

Amortization of negative VOBA

     (65     (46     (19     (41.3 )% 

Interest expense on debt

     3       1       2    

Other expenses

     1,333       1,290       43       3.3
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     2,224       2,337       (113     (4.8 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     116       130       (14     (10.8 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

   $ 212     $ 204     $ 8       3.9
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

Operating earnings increased by $8 million over the prior period. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates reduced operating earnings by $25 million for the first nine months of 2012 compared to the prior period and resulted in significant variances in the financial statement line items. The fourth quarter 2011 purchase of a Turkish life insurance and pension company increased operating earnings by $15 million.

The segment continued to experience business growth; however, certain European countries in the region continued to be affected by the challenging economic environment. Sales for retirement, accident and health and credit life products increased primarily in the Middle East, western Europe and Russia. Retirement sales were generated by strong sales of fixed and variable annuity products. A modest recovery in credit markets resulted in higher premiums and policyholder benefits in our credit life business. The disposal of certain closed blocks of business in the U.K. reduced operating earnings and resulted in lower net investment income, partially offset by the release of certain liabilities. Dividends paid to MetLife, Inc. at the end of 2011 decreased net investment income, as a result of lower average invested assets. Operating expenses increased, most notably due to higher compensation and administrative costs. The increased sales generated an increase in commissions, which was largely offset by a corresponding increase in DAC capitalization. DAC amortization also increased due to business growth. Fee income increased largely due to growth in the Middle East and central Europe. The combined impact of the items discussed above reduced operating earnings by $61 million.

 

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Operating earnings increased $40 million reflecting higher investment yields. The increase in yields reflects higher returns on our fair value option securities, primarily in Poland, driven by improving equity markets.

Operating earnings benefited by $16 million primarily due to a release of negative VOBA associated with the conversion of certain policies. In addition, certain income tax items in both periods resulted in an $18 million increase in operating earnings.

Corporate & Other

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
             
     2012     2011     Change     % Change  
           (In millions)              

OPERATING REVENUES

        

Premiums

   $ 43     $ 41     $ 2       4.9

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

     117       115       2       1.7

Net investment income

     547       681       (134     (19.7 )% 

Other revenues

     27       54       (27     (50.0 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating revenues

     734       891       (157     (17.6 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

     94       101       (7     (6.9 )% 

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

     23              23    

Amortization of DAC and VOBA

     1              1    

Interest expense on debt

     886       969       (83     (8.6 )% 

Other expenses

     409       358       51       14.2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating expenses

     1,413       1,428       (15     (1.1 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

     (516     (417     (99     (23.7 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings

     (163     (120     (43     (35.8 )% 

Less: Preferred stock dividends

     91       91             
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Operating earnings available to common shareholders

   $ (254   $ (211   $ (43     (20.4 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.

Operating earnings available to common shareholders and operating earnings each decreased $43 million, primarily due to higher expenses, lower net investment income and lower operating earnings on invested assets that were funded using FHLB advances. These decreases were partially offset by lower interest expense on debt and higher tax credits.

In 2012, the Company incurred $66 million of employee-related and other costs associated with its enterprise-wide strategic initiative. In the first quarter of 2012, the Company also incurred a $26 million charge representing a multi-state examination payment related to unclaimed property and MetLife’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File. In addition, advertising costs were $11 million higher compared to the prior period. Partially offsetting these charges were $40 million of expenses incurred in the prior period related to the liquidation plan filed by the Department of Financial Services for ELNY.

Net investment income decreased $28 million, excluding the FHLB which is discussed below, driven by an increase in the amount credited to the segments due to growth in the economic capital managed by Corporate & Other on their behalf, lower returns from private equity and real estate investments, and decreased earnings on credit sensitive derivatives, partially offset by higher returns on real estate joint ventures.

 

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Operating earnings on invested assets that were funded using FHLB advances decreased $22 million, reflected by decreases in net investment income and interest expense on debt, due to the transfer of $3.8 billion of FHLB advances and underlying assets from MetLife Bank to the Corporate Benefit Funding segment in April 2012.

Corporate & Other benefits from the impact of certain permanent tax differences, including non-taxable investment income and tax credits for investments in low income housing. As a result, our effective tax rates differ from the U.S. statutory rate of 35%. In the first nine months of 2012, we benefited primarily from higher utilization of tax preferenced investments which improved operating earnings by $49 million from the prior period.

Interest expense on debt, excluding the FHLB which is discussed above, decreased $21 million primarily due to the maturity of $750 million in long-term debt in December 2011.

Investments

Investment Risks

The Company’s primary investment objective is to optimize, net of income tax, risk-adjusted investment income and risk-adjusted total return while ensuring that assets and liabilities are managed on a cash flow and duration basis. The Company is exposed to five primary sources of investment risk:

 

   

credit risk, relating to the uncertainty associated with the continued ability of a given obligor to make timely payments of principal and interest;

 

   

interest rate risk, relating to the market price and cash flow variability associated with changes in market interest rates;

 

   

liquidity risk, relating to the diminished ability to sell certain investments in times of strained market conditions;

 

   

market valuation risk, relating to the variability in the estimated fair value of investments associated with changes in market factors such as credit spreads; and

 

   

currency risk, relating to the variability in currency exchange rates for foreign denominated investments.

The Company manages risk through in-house fundamental analysis of the underlying obligors, issuers, transaction structures and real estate properties. The Company also manages credit risk, market valuation risk and liquidity risk through industry and issuer diversification and asset allocation. For real estate and agricultural assets, the Company manages credit risk and market valuation risk through geographic, property type and product type diversification and asset allocation. The Company manages interest rate risk as part of its asset and liability management strategies; through product design, such as the use of market value adjustment features and surrender charges; and through proactive monitoring and management of certain non-guaranteed elements of its products, such as the resetting of credited interest and dividend rates for policies that permit such adjustments. The Company also uses certain derivative instruments in the management of credit, interest rate, currency and equity market risks.

The Company generally enters into market standard purchased credit default swap contracts to mitigate the credit risk of its investment portfolio. Payout under such contracts is generally triggered by certain credit events experienced by the referenced entities. For credit default swaps covering North American corporate issuers, credit events typically include bankruptcy and failure to pay on borrowed money. For European corporate issuers, credit events typically also include involuntary restructuring. With respect to credit default contracts on western European sovereign debt, credit events typically include failure to pay debt obligations, repudiation, moratorium, or involuntary restructuring. In each case, payout on a credit default swap is triggered only after the relevant Credit Derivatives Determinations Committee of the International Swaps and Derivatives Association deems that a credit event has occurred.

 

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Current Environment

The global economy and markets are still affected by a period of significant stress that began in the second half of 2007. This disruption adversely affected the financial services sector in particular and global capital markets. As a financial holding company with significant operations in the U.S., we are affected by the monetary policy of the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve Board has taken a number of actions in recent years to spur economic activity by keeping interest rates low and, may take further actions to influence interest rates in the future, which may have an impact on the pricing levels of risk-bearing investments. In September 2012, the Federal Reserve Board announced that it anticipates that low interest rates are likely to be warranted at least through mid-2015, in order to improve the pace of recovery from stressed economic conditions. It also announced that it will expand its holdings of longer-term securities with open-ended purchases of $40 billion each month of agency mortgage-backed securities. Finally, it reiterated its plan to continue “Operation Twist,” through the end of 2012. This program, announced in September 2011 by the Federal Open Market Committee, involves the purchase of U.S. Treasury securities with remaining maturities of six to 30 years and the sale of, over the same period, an equal par value of U.S. Treasury securities with remaining maturities of approximately three years or less. By reducing the supply of longer-term securities in the market, both of these programs are intended to put downward pressure on longer-term interest rates relative to levels that would otherwise prevail. The reduction in longer-term interest rates, in turn, is intended to contribute to a broad easing of financial market conditions that could provide additional stimulus to support the economic recovery.

As a global insurance company, we are also affected by the monetary policy of central banks around the world. While the major central banks are not lowering interest rates at the same pace as in prior quarters, the Federal Reserve Board, ECB, Bank of England, and Bank of Japan have all increased their use of “non-traditional” means of monetary policy via their asset purchase programs. We cannot predict with certainty the effect of these asset purchase programs on interest rates or the impact on the pricing levels of risk-bearing investments at this time. See “Risk Factors — Governmental and Regulatory Actions for the Purpose of Stabilizing and Revitalizing the Financial Markets and Protecting Investors and Consumers May Not Achieve the Intended Effect or Could Adversely Affect Our Competitive Position” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

Financial markets have also been affected by concerns over U.S. fiscal policy, including the uncertainty regarding the “fiscal cliff,” which is comprised of a series of tax increases and automatic government spending cuts that will become effective at the beginning of 2013 unless steps are taken to delay or offset them, as well as the need to again raise the U.S. federal government’s debt ceiling by the end of 2012 and reduce the federal deficit. These issues could, on their own, or combined with the slowing of the global economy generally, send the U.S. into a new recession, have severe repercussions to the U.S. and global credit and financial markets, further exacerbate concerns over sovereign debt of other countries and disrupt economic activity in the U.S. and elsewhere. See “Risk Factors — Concerns Over U.S. Fiscal Policy and the “Fiscal Cliff” in the U.S., as well as Rating Agency Downgrades of U.S. Treasury Securities, Could Have an Adverse Effect on Our Business, Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in the June 30, 2012 Form 10-Q.

Concerns about economic conditions, capital markets and the solvency of certain European Union member states, including Europe’s perimeter region and Cyprus, and of financial institutions that have significant direct or indirect exposure to the debt issued by these countries have been a cause of elevated levels of market volatility. This market volatility will continue to affect the performance of various asset classes during 2012, and perhaps longer, until there is an ultimate resolution of these sovereign debt-related concerns. The financial markets have also been affected by concerns that one or more countries may exit the Euro zone. As a result of concerns about the ability of Europe’s perimeter region to service its sovereign debt, certain countries have experienced credit ratings downgrades. Despite official financial support programs for the most stressed governments in Europe’s perimeter region, concerns about sovereign debt sustainability subsequently expanded to other European Union member states. As a result, in late 2011 and continuing in 2012, several of the European Union member states have experienced sovereign credit ratings downgrades or had their credit ratings outlook revised to negative.

 

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In September 2012, the ECB announced a new bond buying program, Outright Monetary Transactions, intended to stabilize the European financial crisis and help certain countries struggling with their levels of sovereign debt. This program involves the purchase by the ECB of unlimited quantities of short-term sovereign bonds, with maturities of one to three years. These large scale purchases of short-term sovereign bonds are intended to increase the price of the bonds, and lower their interest rates, making it less expensive for certain countries to borrow money. As a condition to participating in this program, countries must agree to strict levels of economic reform and oversight. As summarized below, at September 30, 2012, the Company did not have significant exposure to the sovereign debt of Europe’s perimeter region. Accordingly, we do not expect such investments to have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition. Outside of Europe’s perimeter region, the Company’s holdings of sovereign debt, corporate debt and perpetual hybrid securities in certain European Union member states and other countries in the region that are not members of the European Union (collectively, the “European Region”) were concentrated in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Poland, Switzerland and Norway, the sovereign debt of which continues to maintain the highest credit ratings from all major rating agencies.

Greece Support Program. In March 2012, the leaders of the European Union member states nations approved Greece’s second support program. In connection with this €130 billion support program, Greece exchanged €177 billion of its domestic law sovereign debt with private sector holders in exchange for a package of four new securities issued by Greece and the public sector supported European Financial Stability Facility (“EFSF”). The debt exchange resulted in a loss to private sector holders of approximately 70% on a net present value basis. Greece’s newly issued sovereign debt is rated C by Moody’s, CCC by Standard & Poor’s Rating Services (“S&P”) and CCC by Fitch Ratings (“Fitch”).

Europe’s Perimeter Region Sovereign Debt Securities. Our holdings of Greece sovereign debt were acquired in the acquisition of ALICO and our amortized cost basis reflects recording such securities at estimated fair value on November 1, 2010, which was substantially below par, partially mitigating our exposure. During the year ended December 31, 2011, we sold a significant portion of our Europe’s perimeter region sovereign debt, thereby substantially reducing our exposure. During 2011, we recorded non-cash impairment charges of $405 million on our holdings of Greece sovereign debt. In 2012, we recorded an insignificant gain on the exchange of our holdings of Greece sovereign debt. In the exchange described above, we received both EFSF debt and Greece sovereign debt, which reduced our exposure to Greece sovereign debt from $158 million to $57 million on the date of the exchange, while the short-dated EFSF debt, which was rated Aaa by Moody’s and Fitch and AA+ by S&P was valued at $115 million on the date of exchange. The par value, amortized cost and estimated fair value of holdings in sovereign debt of Europe’s perimeter region were $244 million, $77 million and $56 million at September 30, 2012, respectively, and $874 million, $254 million and $264 million at December 31, 2011, respectively.

 

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Select European Countries — Investment Exposures. Due to the current level of economic, fiscal and political strain in Europe’s perimeter region and Cyprus, the Company continually monitors and adjusts its level of investment exposure in these countries. We manage direct and indirect investment exposure in these countries through fundamental credit analysis. The following table presents a summary of investments by invested asset class and related purchased credit default protection across Europe’s perimeter region, by country, and Cyprus.

 

    Summary of Select European Country Investment Exposure at September 30, 2012 (1) (2)  
    Fixed maturity securities (3)                          
    Sovereign     Financial
Services
    Non-
Financial
Services
    Total     All Other
General
Account
Investment
Exposure
(4)
    Total
Exposure
    %     Purchased
Credit
Default
Protection (5)
    Net
Exposure
    %  
                            (In millions)                 (In millions)        

Europe’s perimeter region:

                   

Portugal

  $      $      $ 55     $ 55     $ 4     $ 59       2   $      $ 59       2

Italy

    15       152       683       850       72       922       26       (5     917       26  

Ireland

           20       229       249       1,346       1,595       45              1,595       45  

Greece

    39                     39       192       231       7              231       7  

Spain

    2       76       516       594       43       637       18              637       18  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Europe’s perimeter region

    56       248       1,483       1,787       1,657       3,444       98       (5     3,439       98  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cyprus

    59                     59       28       87       2              87       2  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 115     $ 248     $ 1,483     $ 1,846     $ 1,685     $ 3,531       100   $ (5   $ 3,526       100
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

As percent of total cash and invested assets

    0.0     0.0     0.3     0.3            

Investment grade percent

    12     94     91              

Non-investment grade percent

    88     6     9              

 

 

(1)

Information is presented on a country of risk basis (e.g. the country where the issuer primarily conducts business).

 

(2)

The Company has not written any credit default swaps with an underlying risk related to any of these six countries. For Greece, the Company has $1 million of commitments to fund partnership investments at September 30, 2012.

 

(3)

Presented at estimated fair value. The par value and amortized cost of the fixed maturity securities were $2.0 billion and $1.9 billion, respectively, at September 30, 2012.

 

(4)

Comprised of equity securities, fair value option (“FVO”) general account securities, real estate and real estate joint ventures, other limited partnership interests, cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments, and other invested assets at carrying value. See Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for an explanation of the carrying value for these invested asset classes. Excludes FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments of $488 million, which support unit-linked variable annuity type liabilities and do not qualify for separate account summary total assets and liabilities. The contractholder, and not the Company, directs the investment of these funds. The related variable annuity type liability is satisfied from the contractholder’s account balance and not from the general account investments of the Company.

 

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(5)

Purchased credit default protection is stated at the estimated fair value of the swap. For Italy, the purchased credit default protection relates to financial services corporate securities and these swaps had a notional amount of $80 million and an estimated fair value of $5 million at September 30, 2012. The counterparties to these swaps are financial institutions with S&P credit ratings ranging from A+ to A as of September 30, 2012.

European Region Investments. The Company has investments across the European Region. We have proactively mitigated risk in both direct and indirect exposures in the European Region by investing in a diversified portfolio of high quality investments with a focus on the higher-rated countries, reducing our holdings through sales of financial services securities during 2010, 2011 and 2012 and sales of Europe’s perimeter region sovereign debt in 2011 and 2012, and by purchasing certain single name credit default protection in 2010 and 2011. Our sales of financial services securities were focused on institutions with exposure to Europe’s perimeter region, lower preference capital structure instruments and larger positions. Investments in sovereign debt and corporate securities (fixed maturity and perpetual hybrid securities) were $40.4 billion at September 30, 2012. Sovereign debt issued by countries outside of Europe’s perimeter region comprised $8.8 billion, or 99% of European Region sovereign fixed maturity securities, at estimated fair value, at September 30, 2012. The European Region corporate securities are invested in a diversified portfolio of primarily non-financial services securities, which comprised $23.8 billion, or 75% of European Region total corporate securities, at estimated fair value, at September 30, 2012. Of these European Region sovereign fixed maturity and corporate securities, 91% were investment grade and, for the 9% that were below investment grade, the majority were non-financial services corporate securities, at September 30, 2012. European Region financial services corporate securities, at estimated fair value, were $7.8 billion, including $5.9 billion within the banking sector, with 92% invested in investment grade rated corporate securities, at September 30, 2012.

Rating Actions — U.S. Treasury Securities. As a result of a special Congressional committee failing to agree on certain deficit-reduction measures, in August 2011, U.S. Treasury securities were downgraded to AA+ by S&P with negative outlook. Financial markets have also been affected by concerns over U.S. fiscal policy, including the uncertainty regarding the “fiscal cliff” as discussed above. These issues could result in the future downgrade of U.S. credit ratings. We continue to closely evaluate the implications on our investment portfolio of further rating agency downgrades of U.S. Treasury securities and believe our investment portfolio is well positioned. See “Risk Factors — Concerns Over U.S. Fiscal Policy and the “Fiscal Cliff” in the U.S., as well as Rating Agency Downgrades of U.S. Treasury Securities, Could Have an Adverse Effect on Our Business, Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in the June 30, 2012 Form 10-Q.

Summary. All of these factors have had and could continue to have an adverse effect on the financial results of companies in the financial services industry, including MetLife. Such global economic conditions, as well as the global financial markets, continue to impact our net investment income, our net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), level of unrealized gains and (losses) within the various asset classes within our investment portfolio and our allocation to lower yielding cash equivalents and short-term investments. See “— Industry Trends” and “Risk Factors – Difficult Conditions in the Global Capital Markets and the Economy Generally May Materially Adversely Affect Our Business and Results of Operations and These Conditions May Not Improve in the Near Future” included in MetLife, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2012.

 

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Composition of Investment Portfolio and Investment Portfolio Results

The composition of the investment portfolio, the related investment portfolio results and gains (losses) on derivative instruments which are used to manage risk for certain invested assets and certain insurance liabilities is presented in the yield table below:

 

    At or For the
Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    At or For the
Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
    2012     2011     2012     2011  
    (In millions)  

Fixed Maturity Securities:

       

Yield (1)

    4.85     4.79     4.86     4.95

Investment income (2),(3),(4)

  $ 3,833     $ 3,721     $ 11,393     $ 11,208  

Investment gains (losses) (3)

    34       (186     (121     (454

Ending carrying value (2),(3)

    378,748       354,611       378,748       354,611  

Mortgage Loans:

       

Yield (1)

    5.81     5.56     5.62     5.54

Investment income (3),(4)

    810       806       2,404       2,330  

Investment gains (losses) (3)

           45       49       160  

Ending carrying value (3)

    56,291       59,722       56,291       59,722  

Real Estate and Real Estate Joint Ventures:

       

Yield (1)

    2.95     4.67     5.14     4.15

Investment income (3)

    64       96       329       252  

Investment gains (losses) (3)

    (15     165       (10     241  

Ending carrying value

    8,749       8,197       8,749       8,197  

Policy Loans:

       

Yield (1)

    5.25     5.43     5.27     5.46

Investment income

    157       162       471       482  

Ending carrying value

    11,949       11,932       11,949       11,932  

Equity Securities:

       

Yield (1)

    3.65     3.59     4.36     4.42

Investment income

    26       28       96       106  

Investment gains (losses)

    3       (3     13       (37

Ending carrying value

    2,803       3,118       2,803       3,118  

Other Limited Partnership Interests:

       

Yield (1)

    8.66     11.08     12.00     12.07

Investment income

    145       180       593       582  

Investment gains (losses)

    (7            (18     8  

Ending carrying value

    6,730       6,538       6,730       6,538  

Cash and Short-Term Investments:

       

Yield (1),(7)

    0.66     1.03     0.67     1.10

Investment income

    34       38       100       122  

Investment gains (losses)

    3              3       1  

Ending carrying value (3)

    31,625       25,901       31,625       25,901  

Other Invested Assets: (1)

       

Investment income (7)

    140       158       469       331  

Investment gains (losses) (3)

    12              (23     (3

Ending carrying value (7)

    23,477       23,103       23,477       23,103  

Total Investments:

       

Investment income yield (1),(3),(5),(7)

    4.88     4.97     4.98     5.05

Investment fees and expenses yield

    (0.13     (0.13     (0.13     (0.13
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Investment Income Yield (1),(3),(5),(7)

    4.75     4.84     4.85     4.92
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment income (5),(7)

  $ 5,209     $ 5,189     $ 15,855     $ 15,413  

Investment fees and expenses

    (140     (137     (419     (403
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net investment income including certain Divested Businesses (5),(7)

    5,069       5,052       15,436       15,010  

Less: net investment income from certain Divested Businesses (5)

    21       91       139       264  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Investment Income (3),(6),(7)

  $ 5,048     $ 4,961     $ 15,297     $ 14,746  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ending Carrying Value (3),(5),(7)

  $ 520,372     $ 493,122     $ 520,372     $ 493,122  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment portfolio gains (losses) including Divested Businesses

  $ 30     $ 21     $ (107   $ (84

Less: investment portfolio gains (losses) from Divested Businesses (5)

    (26     7       35       (2
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment portfolio gains (losses) (3),(5),(6)

  $ 56     $ 14     $ (142   $ (82
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross investment gains

  $ 257     $ 474     $ 790     $ 1,107  

Gross investment losses

    (127     (199     (644     (730

Writedowns

    (74     (261     (288     (459
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment Portfolio Gains (Losses) (3),(5),(6)

    56       14       (142     (82

Investment portfolio gains (losses) income tax (expense) benefit

    (13     (5     44       30  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment Portfolio Gains (Losses), Net of Income Tax

  $ 43     $ 9     $ (98   $ (52
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Derivative gains (losses) including Divested Businesses

  $ (824   $ 4,129     $ (904   $ 4,036  

Less: derivative gains (losses) from Divested Businesses (5)

           (139     (7     (150
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Derivative gains (losses) (3),(5),(6)

    (824     4,268       (897     4,186  

Derivative gains (losses) income tax (expense) benefit

    281       (1,496     309       (1,472
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Derivative Gains (Losses), Net of Income Tax

  $ (543   $ 2,772     $ (588   $ 2,714  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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As described in the footnotes below, the yield table reflects certain differences from the GAAP presentation of invested assets, net investment income, net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses) as presented in the consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income. This yield table presentation is consistent with how we measure our investment performance for management purposes, and we believe it enhances understanding of our investment portfolio results.

 

(1)

Yields are calculated as investment income as a percent of average quarterly asset carrying values. Investment income excludes recognized gains and losses and reflects GAAP adjustments related to net investment income. Asset carrying values exclude unrealized gains (losses), collateral received in connection with our securities lending program, freestanding derivative assets, collateral received from derivative counterparties, the effects of consolidating under GAAP certain VIEs that are treated as consolidated securitization entities (“CSEs”), contractholder-directed unit-linked investments and securitized reverse residential mortgage loans. A yield is not presented for other invested assets, as it is not considered a meaningful measure of performance for this asset class.

 

(2)

Fixed maturity securities include $743 million and $684 million at estimated fair value of trading and other securities at September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Fixed maturity securities include $24 million and $68 million of investment income (loss) related to trading and other securities for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and ($38) million and $6 million of investment income related to trading and other securities for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

 

(3)

As described in footnote (1) above, ending carrying values exclude contractholder-directed unit-linked investments — reported within trading and other securities, securities held by CSEs — reported within trading and other securities, and securitized reverse residential mortgage loans– reported within mortgage loans. The related adjustments to ending carrying value, investment income and investment gains (losses) by invested asset class are presented below. The adjustments to investment income, net investment income and investment gains (losses) in the aggregate are as shown in footnote (6) to this yield table. The adjustment to investment gains (losses) presented below and in footnote (6) to this yield table includes the effects of remeasuring both the invested assets and long-term debt in accordance with the FVO.

 

     At or For the Three Months Ended September 30,  2012      At or For the Nine Months Ended September 30,  2012  
     As Reported in the
Yield Table
     Excluded
Amounts
     Total      As Reported in the
Yield Table
     Excluded
Amounts
    Total  
     (In millions)      (In millions)  

Trading and Other Securities:

                

(included within Fixed Maturity Securities):

                

Ending carrying value

   $ 743      $ 15,252      $ 15,995      $ 743      $ 15,252     $ 15,995  

Investment income

   $ 24      $ 513      $ 537      $ 68      $ 1,014     $ 1,082  

Investment gains (losses)

   $ 1      $ 8      $ 9      $ 4      $ (2   $ 2  

Mortgage Loans:

                

Ending carrying value

   $ 56,291      $ 2,879      $ 59,170      $ 56,291      $ 2,879     $ 59,170  

Investment income

   $ 810      $ 42      $ 852      $ 2,404      $ 131     $ 2,535  

Investment gains (losses)

   $       $ 7      $ 7      $ 49      $ 16     $ 65  

Cash and Short-Term Investments:

                

Ending carrying value

   $ 31,625      $ 3      $ 31,628      $ 31,625      $ 3     $ 31,628  

Total Investments:

                

Ending carrying value

   $ 520,372      $ 18,134      $ 538,506      $ 520,372      $ 18,134     $ 538,506  

 

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Table of Contents
     At or For the Three Months Ended September 30,  2011     At or For the Nine Months Ended September 30,  2011  
     As Reported in the
Yield Table
    Excluded
Amounts
    Total     As Reported in the
Yield Table
     Excluded
Amounts
    Total  
     (In millions)     (In millions)  

Trading and Other Securities:

             

(included within Fixed Maturity Securities):

             

Ending carrying value

   $ 684     $ 18,014     $ 18,698     $ 684      $ 18,014     $ 18,698  

Investment income

   $ (38   $ (818   $ (856   $ 6      $ (430   $ (424

Investment gains (losses)

   $      $ 1     $ 1     $       $ (7   $ (7

Mortgage Loans:

             

Ending carrying value

   $ 59,722     $ 3,227     $ 62,949     $ 59,722      $ 3,227     $ 62,949  

Investment income

   $ 806     $ 95     $ 901     $ 2,330      $ 286     $ 2,616  

Investment gains (losses)

   $ 45     $ (8   $ 37     $ 160      $ 9     $ 169  

Cash and Short-Term Investments:

             

Ending carrying value

   $ 25,901     $ 13     $ 25,914     $ 25,901      $ 13     $ 25,914  

Total Investments:

             

Ending carrying value

   $ 493,122     $ 21,254     $ 514,376     $ 493,122      $ 21,254     $ 514,376  

 

(4)

Investment income from fixed maturity securities and mortgage loans includes prepayment fees.

 

(5)

Yields are calculated including net investment income of certain of the Divested Businesses and related ending carrying values. The net investment income adjustment in footnote (6) to this yield table for the Divested Businesses for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012 includes $4 million and $177 million, respectively, for securitized reverse residential mortgage loans that was excluded from the Mortgage Loans and total yield sections presented above. For further information on the Divested Businesses, see Note 17 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Certain amounts in the prior periods have been revised to conform with current period presentation. In the third quarter 2012, MetLife, Inc., began reporting additional MetLife Bank operations as Divested Businesses.

 

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Table of Contents
(6)

Net investment income, investment portfolio gains (losses) and derivative gains (losses) presented in this yield table vary from the most directly comparable measures presented in the GAAP consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income due to certain reclassifications affecting net investment income, net investment gains (losses), net derivative gains (losses), interest credited to policyholder account balances, and other revenues, and excludes the effects of consolidating under GAAP certain VIEs that are treated as CSEs. Such reclassifications are presented in the tables below.

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (In millions)  

Net investment income — in above yield table

   $ 5,048     $ 4,961     $ 15,297     $ 14,746  

Real estate discontinued operations — deduct from net investment income

            (3     (2     (9

Scheduled periodic settlement payments on derivatives not qualifying for hedge accounting —deduct from net investment income, add to net derivative gains (losses)

     (108     (70     (310     (164

Equity method operating joint ventures— add to net investment income, deduct from net derivative gains (losses)

                          (23

Net investment income on contractholder-directed unit-linked investments — reported within trading and other securities — add to net investment income

     512       (824     1,010       (437

Divested Businesses — add to net investment income

     25       91       316       264  

Incremental net investment income from CSEs — add to net investment income

     40       97       125       281  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net investment income — GAAP consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income

   $ 5,517     $ 4,252     $ 16,436     $ 14,658  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment portfolio gains (losses) including Divested Businesses — in above yield table

   $ 30     $ 21     $ (107   $ (84

Real estate discontinued operations — deduct from net investment gains (losses)

            (26     (25     (97

Investment gains (losses) related to CSEs — add to net investment gains (losses)

     15       (7     14       2  

Other gains (losses) — add to net investment gains (losses)

     (23     (43     (34     (130
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net investment gains (losses) — GAAP consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income

   $ 22     $ (55   $ (152   $ (309
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Derivative gains (losses) including Divested Businesses — in above yield table

   $ (824   $ 4,129     $ (904   $ 4,036  

Scheduled periodic settlement payments on derivatives not qualifying for hedge accounting —add to net derivative gains (losses), deduct from net investment income

     108       70       310       164  

Scheduled periodic settlement payments on derivatives not qualifying for hedge accounting — add to net derivative gains (losses), deduct from interest credited to policyholder account balances

     5       2       8       18  

Settlement of foreign currency earnings — add to net derivative gains (losses), deduct from other revenues

     (7     (5     (18     (8

Equity method operating joint ventures— add to net investment income, deduct from net derivative gains (losses)

                          23  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net derivative gains (losses) — GAAP consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income

   $ (718   $ 4,196     $ (604   $ 4,233  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(7)

Certain amounts in the prior periods have been revised in connection with the retrospective application of the first quarter 2012 adoption of the new guidance regarding accounting for DAC. Prior period yields have been recast to conform to the current presentation to exclude from asset carrying values freestanding derivatives and collateral received from derivative counterparties.

See “— Results of Operations — Three Months Ended September 30, 2012 Compared with the Three Months Ended September 30, 2011 — Consolidated Results” and “— Results of Operations — Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012 Compared with the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011 — Consolidated Results” for analyses of the period over period changes in net investment income, net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses).

Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale

Fixed maturity securities, which consisted principally of publicly-traded and privately placed fixed maturity securities, were $378.0 billion and $350.3 billion, at estimated fair value, or 70% and 67% of total cash and invested assets, at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. Publicly-traded fixed maturity securities represented $328.6 billion and $303.6 billion, at estimated fair value, at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, or 87% of total fixed maturity securities, at both September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011. Privately placed fixed maturity securities represented $49.4 billion and $46.7 billion, at estimated fair value, at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, or 13% of total fixed maturity securities, at estimated fair value, at both September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011.

 

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Equity securities, which consisted principally of publicly-traded and privately-held common and preferred stocks, including certain perpetual hybrid securities and mutual fund interests, were $2.8 billion and $3.0 billion, at estimated fair value, or 0.5% and 0.6%, of total cash and invested assets, at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. Publicly-traded equity securities represented $1.7 billion, at estimated fair value, at both September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, or 61% and 57% of total equity securities, at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. Privately-held equity securities represented $1.1 billion and $1.3 billion, at estimated fair value, or 39% and 43%, of total equity securities, at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

See also “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Investments — Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale — Valuation of Securities” included in the 2011 Annual Report for a discussion of the processes we use to value securities and the related controls.

Fair Value Hierarchy and Level 3 Rollforward — Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities. Fixed maturity securities and equity securities available-for-sale measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis and their corresponding fair value pricing sources and fair value hierarchy are as follows:

 

     September 30, 2012  
Pricing Source:    Fixed
Maturity
Securities
     % of
Total
    Equity
Securities
     % of
Total
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

Level 1:

          

Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets

   $ 29,681        7.9   $ 860        30.7
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Level 2:

          

Independent pricing source

     287,254        76.0       415        14.8  

Internal matrix pricing or discounted cash flow techniques

     38,695        10.2       840        30.0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Significant other observable inputs

     325,949        86.2       1,255        44.8  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Level 3:

          

Independent pricing source

     8,472        2.2       474        16.9  

Internal matrix pricing or discounted cash flow techniques

     11,977        3.2       199        7.1  

Independent broker quotations

     1,926        0.5       15        0.5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Significant unobservable inputs

     22,375        5.9       688        24.5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total estimated fair value

   $ 378,005        100.0   $ 2,803        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

     September 30, 2012  
     Fair Value Measurements Using  
Fair Value Hierarchy:    Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
     Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
     Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
     Total
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
     (In millions)  

Fixed Maturity Securities:

           

U.S. corporate securities

   $       $ 106,243      $ 7,699      $ 113,942  

Foreign corporate securities

             59,947        5,310        65,257  

Foreign government securities

             54,815        2,590        57,405  

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

     28,672        22,702        74        51,448  

Residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”)

     1,009        37,009        2,573        40,591  

Commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”)

             18,226        1,214        19,440  

Asset-backed securities (“ABS”)

             12,155        2,850        15,005  

State and political subdivision securities

             14,852        65        14,917  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

   $ 29,681      $ 325,949      $ 22,375      $ 378,005  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Equity Securities:

           

Common stock

   $ 860        947        262      $ 2,069  

Non-redeemable preferred stock

             308        426        734  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total equity securities

   $ 860      $ 1,255      $ 688      $ 2,803  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Table of Contents

The composition of fair value pricing sources for and significant changes in Level 3 securities at September 30, 2012 are as follows:

 

   

The majority of the Level 3 fixed maturity and equity securities (91%, as presented above) were concentrated in five sectors: U.S. and foreign corporate securities, ABS, foreign government securities and RMBS.

 

   

Level 3 fixed maturity securities are priced principally through market standard valuation methodologies, independent pricing services and, to a much lesser extent, independent non-binding broker quotations using inputs that are not market observable or cannot be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. Level 3 fixed maturity securities consist of less liquid securities with very limited trading activity or where less price transparency exists around the inputs to the valuation methodologies including alternative residential mortgage loan (“Alt-A”) and sub-prime RMBS, certain below investment grade private securities and less liquid investment grade corporate securities (included in U.S. and foreign corporate securities), less liquid ABS and foreign government securities.

 

   

During the three months ended September 30, 2012, Level 3 fixed maturity securities increased by $1.6 billion, or 7%. The increase was driven by net purchases in excess of sales and an increase in estimated fair value recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), partially offset by net transfers out of Level 3.

 

   

During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, Level 3 fixed maturity securities increased by $4.6 billion, or 26%. The increase was driven by net purchases in excess of sales.

An analysis of transfers into and/or out of Level 3, purchases and sales on a sector basis, as well as additional information about the valuation techniques and inputs by level by major classes of invested assets that affect the amounts reported above, is presented in Note 5 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

A rollforward of the fair value measurements for fixed maturity securities and equity securities available-for-sale measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable (Level 3) inputs is as follows:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30, 2012
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30, 2012
 
     Fixed
Maturity
Securities
    Equity
Securities
    Fixed
Maturity
Securities
    Equity
Securities
 
     (In millions)  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 20,824     $ 714     $ 17,765     $ 719  

Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in:

        

Earnings (1)

     9       9       (36       

Other comprehensive income (loss)

     649       2       803       30  

Purchases

     2,337       77       7,021       116  

Sales

     (1,294     (162     (2,907     (215

Transfers into Level 3

     390       48       695       51  

Transfers out of Level 3

     (540            (966     (13
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 22,375     $ 688     $ 22,375     $ 688  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Total gains and losses in earnings and other comprehensive income (loss) are calculated assuming transfers into or out of Level 3 occurred at the beginning of the period. Items transferred into and out during the same period are excluded from the rollforward. Total gains (losses) for fixed maturity securities included in other comprehensive income (loss) of ($1) million were incurred on these securities subsequent to their transfer into Level 3, for both the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012. No gains (losses) were included in earnings.

 

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See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates — Estimated Fair Value of Investments” included in the 2011 Annual Report for further information on the estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported above.

Fixed Maturity Securities. See Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about:

 

   

Fixed maturity and equity securities on a sector basis;

 

   

Government and agency securities holdings in excess of 10% of the Company’s equity; and

 

   

Maturities of fixed maturity securities.

Fixed Maturity Securities Credit Quality — Ratings. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Fixed Maturity Securities Credit Quality — Ratings” included in the 2011 Annual Report for a discussion of the ratings methodologies used by rating agencies and the Securities Valuation Office of the NAIC for fixed maturity securities.

The following table presents total fixed maturity securities by Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organizations (“NRSRO”) designation and the equivalent designations of the NAIC, except for certain structured securities, which utilize NAIC rating methodologies, as well as the percentage, based on estimated fair value that each designation is comprised of at:

 

          September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  

NAIC

Rating

  

Rating Agency Designation

   Amortized
Cost
     Estimated
Fair
Value
     % of
Total
    Amortized
Cost
     Estimated
Fair
Value
     % of
Total
 
          (In millions)            (In millions)         

1

   Aaa/Aa/A    $ 240,309      $ 264,892        70.1   $ 230,195      $ 246,786        70.5

2

   Baa      79,495        87,930        23.3       73,352        78,531        22.4  

3

   Ba      14,662        15,029        4.0       14,604        14,375        4.1  

4

   B      8,773        8,881        2.3       9,437        8,849        2.5  

5

   Caa and lower      1,490        1,207        0.3       2,142        1,668        0.5  

6

   In or near default      62        66               81        62          
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     Total fixed maturity securities    $ 344,791      $ 378,005        100.0   $ 329,811      $ 350,271        100.0
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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The following tables present total fixed maturity securities, based on estimated fair value, by sector classification and by NRSRO designation and the equivalent designations of the NAIC, except for certain structured securities, which are presented as described above, that each designation is comprised of at:

 

    Fixed Maturity Securities — by Sector & Credit  Quality Rating at September 30, 2012  

NAIC Rating:

  1     2     3     4     5     6     Total
Estimated
Fair Value
 

Rating Agency Designation:

  Aaa/Aa/A     Baa     Ba     B     Caa and
Lower
    In or Near
Default
   
    (In millions)  

U.S. corporate securities

  $ 52,954     $ 47,301     $ 8,851     $ 4,534     $ 266     $ 36     $ 113,942  

Foreign corporate securities

    31,447       29,226       3,177       1,344       58       5       65,257  

Foreign government securities

    46,105       8,545       1,152       1,564       39              57,405  

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

    51,448                                          51,448  

RMBS (1)

    35,358       1,354       1,706       1,378       774       21       40,591  

CMBS (1)

    19,036       221       114       21       48              19,440  

ABS (1)

    14,451       468       20       40       22       4       15,005  

State and political subdivision securities

    14,093       815       9                            14,917  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

  $ 264,892     $ 87,930     $ 15,029     $ 8,881     $ 1,207     $ 66     $ 378,005  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Percentage of total

    70.1     23.3     4.0     2.3     0.3         100.0

 

    Fixed Maturity Securities — by Sector & Credit  Quality Rating at December 31, 2011  

NAIC Rating:

  1     2     3     4     5     6     Total
Estimated
Fair Value
 

Rating Agency Designation:

  Aaa/Aa/A     Baa     Ba     B     Caa and
Lower
    In or Near
Default
   
    (In millions)  

U.S. corporate securities

  $ 51,045     $ 41,533     $ 8,677     $ 4,257     $ 271     $ 2     $ 105,785  

Foreign corporate securities

    33,403       26,383       2,915       1,173       140       4       64,018  

Foreign government securities

    42,360       7,553       1,146       1,281       196              52,536  

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

    40,012                                          40,012  

RMBS (1)

    36,699       1,477       1,450       2,026       933       52       42,637  

CMBS (1)

    18,403       388       125       57       96              19,069  

ABS (1)

    12,507       355       39       50       24       4       12,979  

State and political subdivision securities

    12,357       842       23       5       8              13,235  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

  $ 246,786     $ 78,531     $ 14,375     $ 8,849     $ 1,668     $ 62     $ 350,271  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Percentage of total

    70.5     22.4     4.1     2.5     0.5         100.0

 

 

(1)

Presented using the revised NAIC rating methodologies described above.

The Company held below investment grade fixed maturity securities with an estimated fair value of $25.2 billion and $25.0 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, with unrealized gains (losses) of $196 million and ($1.3) billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

U.S. and Foreign Corporate Fixed Maturity Securities. The Company maintains a diversified portfolio of corporate fixed maturity securities across many industries and issuers. This portfolio does not have an exposure

 

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to any single issuer in excess of 1% of total investments. The tables below present information about U.S. and foreign corporate securities at:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Estimated
Fair

Value
     % of
Total
    Estimated
Fair

Value
     % of
Total
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

Corporate fixed maturity securities — by sector:

          

Foreign corporate fixed maturity securities (1)

   $ 65,257        36.4   $ 64,018        37.7

U.S. corporate fixed maturity securities — by industry:

          

Consumer

     29,683        16.6       26,739        15.7  

Industrial

     29,629        16.5       26,962        15.9  

Finance

     21,754        12.1       20,854        12.3  

Utility

     20,164        11.3       19,508        11.5  

Communications

     8,908        5.0       8,178        4.8  

Other

     3,804        2.1       3,544        2.1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 179,199        100.0   $ 169,803        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1)

Includes U.S. dollar and foreign denominated fixed maturity securities of foreign obligors.

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Estimated
Fair

Value
     % of Total
Investments
    Estimated
Fair

Value
     % of Total
Investments
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

Concentrations within corporate fixed maturity securities:

          

Largest exposure to a single issuer

   $ 1,630        0.3   $ 1,642        0.3

Holdings in ten issuers with the largest exposures

   $ 9,285        1.8   $ 10,716        2.1

Structured Securities. The following table presents information about structured securities at:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Estimated
Fair
Value
     % of
Total
    Estimated
Fair
Value
     % of
Total
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

RMBS

   $ 40,591        54.1   $ 42,637        57.1

CMBS

     19,440        25.9       19,069        25.5  

ABS

     15,005        20.0       12,979        17.4  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total structured securities

   $ 75,036        100.0   $ 74,685        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratings profile:

          

RMBS rated Aaa

   $ 29,827        73.5   $ 31,690        74.3

RMBS rated NAIC 1

   $ 35,358        87.1   $ 36,699        86.1

CMBS rated Aaa

   $ 15,517        79.8   $ 15,785        82.8

CMBS rated NAIC 1

   $ 19,036        97.9   $ 18,403        96.5

ABS rated Aaa

   $ 9,463        63.1   $ 8,223        63.4

ABS rated NAIC 1

   $ 14,451        96.3   $ 12,507        96.4

 

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RMBS. The table below presents information about RMBS at:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Estimated
Fair

Value
     % of
Total
    Estimated
Fair

Value
     % of
Total
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

By security type:

          

Collateralized mortgage obligations

   $ 21,378        52.7   $ 23,392        54.9

Pass-through securities

     19,213        47.3       19,245        45.1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total RMBS

   $ 40,591        100.0   $ 42,637        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

By risk profile:

          

Agency

   $ 28,355        69.9   $ 31,055        72.8

Prime

     5,538        13.6       5,959        14.0  

Alt-A

     5,036        12.4       4,648        10.9  

Sub-prime

     1,662        4.1       975        2.3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total RMBS

   $ 40,591        100.0   $ 42,637        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

See also “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Investments — Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale — Structured Securities” for further information about collateralized mortgage obligations and pass-through mortgage-backed securities; and agency, prime, Alt-A and sub-prime RMBS.

At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Company’s Alt-A RMBS portfolio has no exposure to option adjustable rate mortgage loans (“ARMs”) and a minimal exposure to hybrid ARMs. The Company’s Alt-A RMBS portfolio is comprised primarily of fixed rate mortgage loans (94% and 93% at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively) which have performed better than both option ARMs and hybrid ARMs in the Alt-A market. The Company’s Alt-A RMBS holdings had unrealized losses of $268 million and $871 million at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

The Company’s sub-prime RMBS holdings are comprised primarily of vintage year 2005 and prior holdings (53% and 79% at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively). These older vintages from 2005 and prior benefit from better underwriting, improved credit enhancement levels and higher residential property price appreciation. The Company’s sub-prime RMBS holdings had unrealized losses of $216 million and $347 million at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

 

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CMBS. The following tables present our CMBS by rating agency designation and by vintage year at:

 

    September 30, 2012  
    Aaa     Aa     A     Baa     Below
Investment
Grade
    Total  
    Amortized
Cost
    Estimated
Fair
Value
    Amortized
Cost
    Estimated
Fair
Value
    Amortized
Cost
    Estimated
Fair
Value
    Amortized
Cost
    Estimated
Fair
Value
    Amortized
Cost
    Estimated
Fair
Value
    Amortized
Cost
    Estimated
Fair
Value
 
    (In millions)  

2004 & Prior

  $ 7,377     $ 7,602     $ 514     $ 534     $ 180     $ 180     $ 87     $ 85     $ 55     $ 41     $ 8,213     $ 8,442  

2005

    3,164       3,467       415       444       286       299       125       119       20       19       4,010       4,348  

2006

    2,143       2,346       267       287       45       44       54       53       35       29       2,544       2,759  

2007

    969       1,030       222       226       131       139       85       73       19       24       1,426       1,492  

2008

                                                            26       24       26       24  

2009

                                                                                   

2010

    3       3                                   59       64                     62       67  

2011

    576       626       1       1       82       85                     8       6       667       718  

2012

    429       443       344       357       735       749                     39       41       1,547       1,590  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 14,661     $ 15,517     $ 1,763     $ 1,849     $ 1,459     $ 1,496     $ 410     $ 394     $ 202     $ 184     $ 18,495     $ 19,440  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratings Distribution

      79.8       9.5       7.7       2.0       1.0       100.0
   

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
    December 31, 2011  
    Aaa     Aa     A     Baa     Below Investment
Grade
    Total  
    Amortized
Cost
    Estimated
Fair
Value
    Amortized
Cost
    Estimated
Fair
Value
    Amortized
Cost
    Estimated
Fair
Value
    Amortized
Cost
    Estimated
Fair
Value
    Amortized
Cost
    Estimated
Fair
Value
    Amortized
Cost
    Estimated
Fair
Value
 
    (In millions)  

2004 & Prior

  $ 9,160     $ 9,407     $ 606     $ 616     $ 226     $ 217     $ 137     $ 132     $ 61     $ 52     $ 10,190     $ 10,424  

2005

    3,081       3,318       427       432       277       269       184       175       31       28       4,000       4,222  

2006

    1,712       1,835       245       237       89       83       118       110       123       106       2,287       2,371  

2007

    643       665       395       332       163       138       67       71       94       88       1,362       1,294  

2008

                                                            25       27       25       27  

2009

                                                                                   

2010

    3       3                                   60       66                     63       69  

2011

    536       557       1       1       92       96                     9       8       638       662  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 15,135     $ 15,785     $ 1,674     $ 1,618     $ 847     $ 803     $ 566     $ 554     $ 343     $ 309     $ 18,565     $ 19,069  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratings Distribution

      82.8       8.5       4.2       2.9       1.6       100.0
   

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

The above tables reflect rating agency designations assigned by nationally recognized rating agencies including Moody’s, S&P, Fitch and Realpoint, LLC.

ABS. The Company’s ABS are diversified both by collateral type and by issuer. The following table presents information about ABS held at:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Estimated
Fair
Value
     % of
Total
    Estimated
Fair
Value
     % of
Total
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

By collateral type:

          

Credit card loans

   $ 2,900        19.3   $ 4,038        31.1

Foreign residential loans

     2,800        18.7       1,771        13.7  

Automobile loans

     2,519        16.8       977        7.5  

Collateralized debt obligations

     2,423        16.1       2,575        19.8  

Student loans

     2,321        15.5       2,434        18.8  

Other loans

     2,042        13.6       1,184        9.1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 15,005        100.0   $ 12,979        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Evaluation of Fixed Maturity Securities and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale for Other-Than-Temporary Impairment

See the following sections within Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about the evaluation of fixed maturity securities and equity securities available-for-sale for other-than-temporary impairments (“OTTI”):

 

   

Evaluating available-for-sale securities for other-than-temporary impairment;

 

   

Net unrealized investment gains (losses);

 

   

Continuous gross unrealized losses and OTTI losses for fixed maturity and equity securities available-for-sale by sector;

 

   

Aging of gross unrealized losses and OTTI losses for fixed maturity and equity securities available-for-sale;

 

   

Concentration of gross unrealized losses and OTTI losses for fixed maturity and equity securities available-for-sale; and

 

   

Evaluating temporarily impaired available-for-sale securities.

Trading and Other Securities

The Company has a trading securities portfolio, principally invested in fixed maturity securities, to support investment strategies that involve the active and frequent purchase and sale of securities (“Actively Traded Securities”) and the execution of short sale agreements. Trading and other securities also include securities for which the FVO has been elected (“FVO Securities”). See also “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Investments – Trading and Other Securities” included in the 2011 Annual Report for further information about composition of Actively Traded Securities and FVO Securities. Trading and other securities were $16.0 billion and $18.3 billion at estimated fair value, or 3.0% and 3.5% of total cash and invested assets, at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. See Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about the Actively Traded Securities and FVO Securities, related short sale agreement liabilities and investments pledged to secure short sale agreement liabilities:

Trading and other securities and trading (short sale agreement) liabilities, measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis and their corresponding fair value hierarchy, are presented as follows:

 

     September 30, 2012  
     Trading and Other
Securities
     % of
Total
    Trading
Liabilities
     % of
Total
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities (Level 1)

   $ 8,568        54   $ 118        98

Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)

     6,261        39       3        2  

Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)

     1,166        7                 
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total estimated fair value

   $ 15,995        100   $ 121        100
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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A rollforward of the fair value measurements for trading and other securities measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable (Level 3) inputs for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, is as follows:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30, 2012
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30, 2012
 
     (In millions)  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 1,135     $ 1,409  

Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings

     39       22  

Purchases

     917       932  

Sales

     (922     (1,161

Transfers into Level 3

     1       2  

Transfers out of Level 3

     (4     (38
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 1,166     $ 1,166  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates” included in the 2011 Annual Report for further information on the estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported above.

See Note 5 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information about the valuation techniques and inputs by level of major classes of invested assets that affect the amounts reported above.

Net Investment Gains (Losses) Including OTTI Losses Recognized in Earnings

See Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for tables that present:

 

   

The components of net investment gains (losses);

 

   

Proceeds from sales or disposals of fixed maturity and equity securities and the components of fixed maturity and equity securities net investment gains (losses);

 

   

Fixed maturity security OTTI losses recognized in earnings by sector and industry within the U.S. and foreign corporate securities sector; and

 

   

Equity security OTTI losses recognized in earnings by sector and industry.

Overview of Fixed Maturity and Equity Security OTTI Losses Recognized in Earnings. Impairments of fixed maturity and equity securities were $56 million and $297 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $289 million and $588 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. Impairments of fixed maturity securities were $47 million and $271 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $284 million and $530 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. Impairments of equity securities were $9 million and $26 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $5 million and $58 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

The Company’s credit-related impairments of fixed maturity securities were $36 million and $177 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $269 million and $382 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

 

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The Company’s three largest impairments totaled $21 million and $79 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $227 million and $290 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

The Company sold or disposed of fixed maturity and equity securities at a loss that had an estimated fair value of $3.1 billion and $17.1 billion for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $6.2 billion and $24.6 billion for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. Gross losses excluding impairments for fixed maturity and equity securities were $123 million and $613 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $158 million and $663 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

Explanations of period over period changes in fixed maturity and equity securities impairments are as follows:

Three months ended September 30, 2012 compared to the three months ended September 30, 2011 — Overall OTTI losses recognized in earnings on fixed maturity and equity securities were $56 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to $289 million in the prior period. The most significant decrease in the current period, as compared to the prior period, was in foreign government securities, primarily attributable to prior period impairments on Greece sovereign debt securities of $206 million as a result of the July 2011 announcement of a debt exchange program on maturities through 2019 and a reduction in the expected recoverable amount for the longer maturities and, to a lesser extent, a decrease in impairments on RMBS, reflecting improved economic fundamentals.

Nine months ended September 30, 2012 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2011 — Overall OTTI losses recognized in earnings on fixed maturity and equity securities were $297 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to $588 million in the prior period. The most significant decrease in the current period, as compared to the prior period, was in foreign government securities, primarily attributable to prior period impairments on Greece sovereign debt securities of $217 million as a result of the July 2011 announcement of a debt exchange program on maturities through 2019 and a reduction in the expected recoverable amount for the longer maturities, while utility industry impairments within U.S. and foreign corporate securities increased $54 million in the current period.

Future Impairments. Future OTTIs will depend primarily on economic fundamentals, issuer performance (including changes in the present value of future cash flows expected to be collected), changes in credit ratings, changes in collateral valuation, changes in interest rates and changes in credit spreads. If economic fundamentals or any of the above factors deteriorate, additional OTTIs may be incurred in upcoming quarters.

Credit Loss Rollforward

See Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for the credit loss rollforward.

Securities Lending

The Company participates in a securities lending program whereby blocks of securities, which are included in fixed maturity securities, short-term investments, equity securities and cash and cash equivalents, are loaned to third parties, primarily brokerage firms and commercial banks. See Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for certain information regarding the Company’s securities lending program.

Invested Assets on Deposit, Held in Trust and Pledged as Collateral

See Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a table of the invested assets on deposit, held in trust and pledged as collateral.

 

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Mortgage Loans

The Company’s mortgage loans are principally collateralized by commercial real estate, agricultural real estate and residential properties. The carrying value of mortgage loans was $59.2 billion and $72.1 billion, or 11.0% and 13.8% of total cash and invested assets, at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The decrease of $12.9 billion since December 31, 2011 is primarily due to the Company’s exit from the businesses of originating forward and reverse residential mortgage loans and the de-recognition of the securitized reverse residential mortgage loans in connection with the sale of MetLife Bank’s reverse mortgage servicing rights. See Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a table that presents the Company’s mortgage loans held-for-investment of $57.9 billion and $56.9 billion by portfolio segment at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, as well as the components of the mortgage loans held-for-sale of $1.3 billion and $15.2 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The information presented below excludes the effects of consolidating certain VIEs that are treated as CSEs and securitized reverse residential mortgage loans. Such amounts are presented in the aforementioned table.

The Company diversifies its mortgage loan portfolio by both geographic region and property type to reduce the risk of concentration. Of the Company’s commercial and agricultural mortgage loans, 90% are collateralized by properties located in the U.S., with the remaining 10% collateralized by properties located outside the U.S., calculated as a percent of the total mortgage loans held-for-investment (excluding commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs) at September 30, 2012. The three locations with the most commercial and agricultural mortgage loans were California, New York and Texas at 19%, 11% and 7%, respectively, of total mortgage loans held for investment (excluding commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs) at September 30, 2012. Additionally, the Company manages risk when originating commercial and agricultural mortgage loans by generally lending only up to 75% of the estimated fair value of the underlying real estate collateral.

 

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Commercial Mortgage Loans by Geographic Region and Property Type. Commercial mortgage loans are the largest component of the mortgage loan invested asset class as it represents over 75% of total mortgage loans held-for-investment (excluding the effects of consolidating certain VIEs that are treated as CSEs) at both September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011. The tables below present the diversification across geographic regions and property types of commercial mortgage loans held-for-investment at:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Amount      % of
Total
    Amount      % of
Total
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

Region:

          

South Atlantic

   $ 8,430        20.1   $ 9,022        22.3

Pacific

     8,189        19.5       8,209        20.3  

Middle Atlantic

     7,014        16.7       6,370        15.8  

International

     5,436        13.0       4,713        11.7  

West South Central

     3,485        8.3       3,220        8.0  

East North Central

     3,161        7.5       2,984        7.3  

New England

     1,551        3.7       1,563        3.9  

Mountain

     990        2.4       746        1.8  

East South Central

     459        1.1       487        1.2  

West North Central

     335        0.8       365        0.9  

Multi-Region and Other

     2,891        6.9       2,761        6.8  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total recorded investment

     41,941        100.0     40,440        100.0
     

 

 

      

 

 

 

Less: valuation allowances

     300          398     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

Carrying value, net of valuation allowances

   $ 41,641        $ 40,042     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

Property Type:

          

Office

   $ 18,899        45.1   $ 18,582        45.9

Retail

     9,758        23.3       9,524        23.6  

Apartments

     4,114        9.8       4,011        9.9  

Hotel

     3,482        8.3       3,114        7.7  

Industrial

     3,237        7.7       3,102        7.7  

Other

     2,451        5.8       2,107        5.2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total recorded investment

     41,941        100.0     40,440        100.0
     

 

 

      

 

 

 

Less: valuation allowances

     300          398     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

Carrying value, net of valuation allowances

   $ 41,641        $ 40,042     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

Mortgage Loan Credit Quality — Restructured, Potentially Delinquent, Delinquent or Under Foreclosure. The Company monitors its mortgage loan investments on an ongoing basis, including reviewing loans that are restructured, potentially delinquent, and delinquent or under foreclosure. These loan classifications are consistent with those used in the insurance industry.

We define restructured mortgage loans as loans in which we, for economic or legal reasons related to the debtor’s financial difficulties, grants a concession to the debtor that it would not otherwise consider. We define potentially delinquent loans as loans that, in management’s opinion, have a high probability of becoming delinquent in the near term. We define delinquent mortgage loans consistent with industry practice, when interest and principal payments are past due as follows: commercial and residential mortgage loans — 60 days or more and agricultural mortgage loans — 90 days or more. We define mortgage loans under foreclosure as loans in which foreclosure proceedings have formally commenced.

 

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The following table presents the recorded investment and valuation allowance for all mortgage loans held-for-investment distributed by the above stated loan classifications at:

 

    September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
    Recorded
Investment
     % of
Total
    Valuation
Allowance
     % of
Recorded
Investment
    Recorded
Investment
     % of
Total
    Valuation
Allowance
    % of
Recorded
Investment
 
    (In millions)     (In millions)  

Commercial:

                  

Performing

  $ 41,566        99.1   $ 246        0.6   $ 40,106        99.1   $ 339       0.8

Restructured (1)

    182        0.4       44        24.2     248        0.6       44       17.7

Potentially delinquent

    112        0.3       10        8.9     23        0.1       15       65.2

Delinquent or under foreclosure

    81        0.2                   63        0.2             
 

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total

  $ 41,941        100.0   $ 300        0.7   $ 40,440        100.0   $ 398       1.0
 

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

Agricultural (2):

                  

Performing

  $ 12,407        98.5   $ 30        0.2   $ 12,899        98.3   $ 41       0.3

Restructured (3)

    65        0.5       10        15.4     58        0.4       7       12.1

Potentially delinquent

    41        0.3       5        12.2     25        0.2       4       16.0

Delinquent or under foreclosure (3)

    87        0.7       7        8.0     147        1.1       29       19.7
 

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total

  $ 12,600        100.0   $ 52        0.4   $ 13,129        100.0   $ 81       0.6
 

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

Residential (4):

                  

Performing

  $ 792        96.8   $           $ 664        96.4   $ 1       0.2

Restructured

                                                    

Potentially delinquent

                                                    

Delinquent or under foreclosure

    26        3.2       2        7.7     25        3.6       1       4.0
 

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total

  $ 818        100.0   $ 2        0.2   $ 689        100.0   $ 2       0.3
 

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

(1)

As of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, restructured commercial mortgage loans were comprised of eight and 10 restructured loans, respectively, all of which were performing.

 

(2)

Of the $12.6 billion of agricultural mortgage loans outstanding at September 30, 2012, 50% were subject to rate resets prior to maturity. A substantial portion of these mortgage loans have been successfully reset, refinanced or extended at market terms.

 

(3)

As of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, restructured agricultural mortgage loans were comprised of 15 and 11 restructured loans, respectively, all of which were performing. There were no restructured agricultural mortgage loans classified as delinquent or under foreclosure as of September 30, 2012. Additionally, as of December 31, 2011, delinquent or under foreclosure agricultural mortgage loans included four restructured loans with a recorded investment of $13 million, which were not performing.

 

(4)

Residential mortgage loans held-for-investment consist primarily of first lien residential mortgage loans.

See Notes 3 and 5 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for tables that present, by portfolio segment, mortgage loans by credit quality indicator, impaired mortgage loans, past due and nonaccrual mortgage loans, loans modified through troubled debt restructurings, the activity in the Company’s valuation allowances, the Company’s valuation allowances by type of credit loss and information on impairments of mortgage loans and the related carrying value after impairments.

 

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Mortgage Loan Credit Quality — Monitoring Process — Commercial and Agricultural Mortgage Loans. The Company reviews all commercial mortgage loans on an ongoing basis. These reviews may include an analysis of the property financial statements and rent roll, lease rollover analysis, property inspections, market analysis, estimated valuations of the underlying collateral, loan-to-value ratios, debt service coverage ratios, and tenant creditworthiness. The monitoring process focuses on higher risk loans, which include those that are classified as restructured, potentially delinquent, delinquent or in foreclosure, as well as loans with higher loan-to-value ratios and lower debt service coverage ratios. The monitoring process for agricultural mortgage loans is generally similar, with a focus on higher risk loans, such as loans with higher loan-to-value ratios, including reviews on a geographic and property type basis.

Loan-to-value ratios and debt service coverage ratios are common measures in the assessment of the quality of commercial mortgage loans. Loan-to-value ratios are a common measure in the assessment of the quality of agricultural mortgage loans. Loan-to-value ratios compare the amount of the loan to the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral. A loan-to-value ratio greater than 100% indicates that the loan amount is greater than the collateral value. A loan-to-value ratio of less than 100% indicates an excess of collateral value over the loan amount. The debt service coverage ratio compares a property’s net operating income to amounts needed to service the principal and interest due under the loan. For commercial mortgage loans, the average loan-to-value ratio was 58% and 61% at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, and the average debt service coverage ratio was 2.2x and 2.1x at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The commercial mortgage loan debt service coverage ratio and loan-to-value ratio, as well as the values utilized in calculating these ratios, are updated annually, on a rolling basis, with a portion of the commercial mortgage loan portfolio updated each quarter. For agricultural mortgage loans, the average loan-to-value ratio was 46% and 48% at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The values utilized in calculating the agricultural mortgage loan loan-to-value ratio are developed in connection with the ongoing review of the agricultural loan portfolio and are routinely updated.

Mortgage Loan Credit Quality — Monitoring Process — Residential Mortgage Loans. The Company has a conservative residential mortgage loan portfolio and does not hold any option ARMs, sub-prime or low teaser rate loans. Higher risk loans include those that are classified as restructured, potentially delinquent, delinquent or in foreclosure, as well as loans with higher loan-to-value ratios and interest-only loans. The Company’s investment in residential junior lien loans and residential mortgage loans with a loan-to-value ratio of 80% or more was $43 million and $74 million at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, and certain of the higher loan-to-value residential mortgage loans have mortgage insurance coverage which reduces the loan-to-value ratio to less than 80%.

Mortgage Loan Valuation Allowances. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Investments — Mortgage Loans — Mortgage Loan Valuation Allowance” included in the 2011 Annual Report for further information on our mortgage valuation allowance policy.

Real Estate and Real Estate Joint Ventures

Real estate holdings by type consisted of the following:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Carrying
Value
     % of
Total
    Carrying
Value
     % of
Total
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

Traditional

   $ 7,326        83.7   $ 5,836        68.2

Real estate joint ventures and funds

     1,083        12.4       2,340        27.3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Real estate and real estate joint ventures

     8,409        96.1       8,176        95.5  

Foreclosed (commercial, agricultural and residential)

     328        3.8       264        3.1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Real estate held-for-investment

     8,737        99.9       8,440        98.6  

Real estate held-for-sale

     12        0.1       123        1.4  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total real estate and real estate joint ventures

   $ 8,749        100.0   $ 8,563        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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See also Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for a discussion of the types of investments reported within traditional real estate and real estate joint ventures and funds. The estimated fair value of the traditional real estate investment portfolio was $9.4 billion and $7.6 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

The Company diversifies its real estate investments by both geographic region and property type to reduce risk of concentration. Of the Company’s real estate investments, 84% are located in the United States, with the remaining 16% located outside the United States, at September 30, 2012. The three locations with the largest real estate investments were California, Japan and Florida at 20%, 14%, and 12%, respectively, at September 30, 2012.

Impairments recognized on real estate held-for-investment were $14 million and $17 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively. There were no impairments recognized on real estate held-for-investment for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011. There were no impairments recognized on real estate held-for-sale for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and $4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. There were no impairments recognized on real estate held-for-sale for the three months ended September 30, 2011 and $1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011. See Note 5 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about impairments on real estate joint ventures and the related carrying value after impairment.

Other Limited Partnership Interests

The carrying value of other limited partnership interests (which primarily represent ownership interests in pooled investment funds that principally make private equity investments in companies in the United States and overseas) was $6.7 billion and $6.4 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, which included $1.3 billion and $1.1 billion of hedge funds, at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. See Note 5 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about impairments on other limited partnerships and the related carrying value after impairment.

Other Invested Assets

The following table presents the Company’s other invested assets by type at:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     Carrying
Value
     % of
Total
    Carrying
Value
     % of
Total
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

Freestanding derivatives with positive estimated fair values

   $ 15,728        67.1   $ 16,200        68.7

Leveraged leases, net of non-recourse debt

     2,217        9.4       2,248        9.5  

Tax credit partnerships

     1,860        7.9       1,531        6.5  

Funds withheld

     640        2.7       608        2.6  

MSRs

     490        2.1       666        2.8  

Joint venture investments

     220        0.9       171        0.7  

Other

     2,322        9.9       2,157        9.2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 23,477        100.0   $ 23,581        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Short-term Investments and Cash Equivalents

The carrying value of short-term investments, which includes securities and other investments with remaining maturities of one year or less, but greater than three months, at the time of purchase was $14.7 billion and $17.3 billion, or 2.7% and 3.3% of total cash and invested assets, at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The carrying value of cash equivalents, which includes securities and other investments with an original or remaining maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase, was $7.9 billion and $5.0 billion, or 1.5% and 1.0% of total cash and invested assets, at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

 

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Derivative Financial Instruments

Derivatives. The Company is exposed to various risks relating to its ongoing business operations, including interest rate risk, foreign currency exchange rate risk, credit risk and equity market risk. The Company uses a variety of strategies to manage these risks, including the use of derivative instruments. See Note 4 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for:

 

   

A comprehensive description of the nature of the Company’s derivative instruments, including the strategies for which derivatives are used in managing various risks.

 

   

Information about the notional amount, estimated fair value, and primary underlying risk exposure of the Company’s derivative financial instruments, excluding embedded derivatives held at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011.

Hedging. See Note 4 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about:

 

   

The notional amount and estimated fair value of derivatives and non-derivative instruments designated as hedging instruments by type of hedge designation at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011.

 

   

The notional amount and estimated fair value of derivatives that were not designated or do not qualify as hedging instruments by derivative type at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011.

 

   

The statement of operations effects of derivatives in cash flow, fair value, or non-qualifying hedge relationships for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011.

See “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk — Management of Market Risk Exposures — Hedging Activities” for more information about the Company’s use of derivatives by major hedge program.

Fair Value Hierarchy. Derivatives measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis and their corresponding fair value hierarchy, are presented as follows:

 

     September 30, 2012  
     Derivative
Assets
     % of
Total
    Derivative
Liabilities
     % of
Total
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities (Level 1)

   $ 75          $ 22       

Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)

     14,743        94       4,419        94  

Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)

     910        6       270        6  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total estimated fair value

   $ 15,728        100   $ 4,711        100
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

The valuation of Level 3 derivatives involves the use of significant unobservable inputs and generally requires a higher degree of management judgment or estimation than the valuations of Level 1 and Level 2 derivatives. Although Level 3 inputs are unobservable, management believes they are consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such instruments and are considered appropriate given the circumstances. The use of different inputs or methodologies could have a material effect on the estimated fair value of Level 3 derivatives and could materially affect net income.

Derivatives categorized as Level 3 at September 30, 2012 include: interest rate swaps and interest rate forwards with maturities which extend beyond the observable portion of the yield curve; cancellable foreign currency swaps with unobservable currency correlation inputs; foreign currency swaps and forwards with certain unobservable inputs, including unobservable portion of the yield curve; credit default swaps priced using

 

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unobservable credit spreads, or that are priced through independent broker quotations; equity variance swaps with unobservable volatility inputs; and equity options with unobservable correlation inputs. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, less than 1% and 5% of the net derivative estimated fair value was priced through independent broker quotations, respectively.

A rollforward of the fair value measurements for derivatives measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable (Level 3) inputs for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012 is as follows:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30, 2012
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30, 2012
 
     (In millions)  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 867     $ 1,234  

Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in:

    

Earnings

     (147     (425

Other comprehensive income (loss)

     (15     12  

Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements

     (65     (182

Transfer into and/or out of Level 3

            1  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 640     $ 640  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The ($147) million and ($425) million gain (loss) for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012 in the table above primarily relates to certain purchased equity options that are valued using models dependent on an unobservable market correlation input and equity variance swaps that are valued using observable equity volatility data plus an unobservable equity variance spread. The unobservable equity variance spread is calculated from a comparison between broker offered variance swap volatility levels and observable plain vanilla equity option volatility. Other significant inputs, which are observable, include equity index levels, equity volatility and the swap yield curve. The Company validates the reasonableness of these inputs by valuing the positions using internal models and comparing the results to broker quotations. The primary drivers of the loss during the three months ended September 30, 2012 were decreases in equity volatility, both historical and implied, and increases in equity index levels, which in total accounted for approximately 87% of the loss. Changes in the unobservable inputs accounted for approximately 13% of the loss. The primary drivers of the loss during the nine months ended September 30, 2012 were significant decreases in equity volatility, both historical and implied, and increases in equity index levels, which in total accounted for approximately 90% of the loss. Changes in the unobservable inputs accounted for approximately 10% of the loss.

See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates — Derivative Financial Instruments” included in the 2011 Annual Report for further information on the estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported above.

Credit Risk. See Note 4 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about how the Company manages credit risk related to its freestanding derivatives, including the use of master netting agreements and collateral arrangements.

The Company’s policy is not to offset the fair value amounts recognized for derivatives executed with the same counterparty under the same master netting agreement. This policy applies to the recognition of derivatives in the consolidated balance sheets, and does not affect the Company’s legal right of offset. The estimated fair

 

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value of the Company’s net derivative assets and net derivative liabilities after the application of master netting agreements and collateral were as follows at September 30, 2012:

 

     September 30, 2012  
     Net Derivative
Assets
    Net Derivative
Liabilities
 
     (In millions)  

Estimated Fair Value of OTC Derivatives After Application of Master Netting Agreements (1)

   $ 11,868     $ 763  

Cash collateral on OTC Derivatives

     (8,561     (3
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Estimated Fair Value of OTC Derivatives After Application of Master Netting Agreements and Cash Collateral (1)

     3,307       760  

Securities Collateral on OTC Derivatives (2)

     (3,258     (600
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Estimated Fair Value of OTC Derivatives After Application of Master Netting Agreements and Cash and Securities Collateral (1)

     49       160  

Estimated Fair Value of Exchange-Traded Derivatives

     76       22  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Estimated Fair Value of Derivatives After Application of Master Netting Agreements and Cash and Securities Collateral (1)

   $ 125      $ 182  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1)

Includes income accruals on derivatives.

 

(2)

The collateral is held in separate custodial accounts and is not recorded on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.

Credit Derivatives. See Note 4 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about the estimated fair value and maximum amount at risk related to the Company’s written credit default swaps.

Embedded Derivatives. The embedded derivatives measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis and their corresponding fair value hierarchy, are presented as follows:

 

     September 30, 2012  
     Net Embedded Derivatives Within  
     Asset Host
Contracts
     % of
Total
    Liability
Host
Contracts
     % of
Total
 
     (In millions)            (In millions)         

Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities (Level 1)

   $           $        

Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)

     1               19          

Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)

     428        100       4,350        100  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total estimated fair value

   $ 429        100   $ 4,369        100
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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A rollforward of the fair value measurements for net embedded derivatives measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable (Level 3) inputs is as follows:

 

     Three Months
Ended
September 30, 2012
    Nine Months
Ended
September 30, 2012
 
     (In millions)  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ (3,961   $ (4,203

Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in:

    

Earnings

     287       793  

Other comprehensive income (loss)

     (78     (39

Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements

     (170     (473

Transfer into and/or out of Level 3

              
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ (3,922   $ (3,922
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The valuation of guaranteed minimum benefits includes a nonperformance risk adjustment. The amounts included in net derivative gains (losses), in connection with this adjustment, were ($534) million and ($1.2) billion for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, and $2.0 billion for both the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2011. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

See also “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates — Derivative Financial Instruments” included in the 2011 Annual Report for further information on the estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported above.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Credit and Committed Facilities

The Company maintains unsecured credit facilities and committed facilities with various financial institutions. See “— Liquidity and Capital Resources — The Company — Liquidity and Capital Sources — Credit and Committed Facilities” for further descriptions of such arrangements.

Collateral for Securities Lending and Derivative Financial Instruments

The Company participates in a securities lending program in the normal course of business for the purpose of enhancing the Company’s total return on its investment portfolio. The Company has non-cash collateral for securities lending from counterparties on deposit from customers, which cannot be sold or repledged, and which has not been recorded on its consolidated balance sheets. The amount of this collateral was $63 million and $371 million at estimated fair value at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Investments — Securities Lending” and “Securities Lending” in Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for further information on discussion of the Company’s securities lending program and the classification of revenues and expenses and the nature of the secured financing arrangement and associated liability.

The Company enters into derivative financial instruments to manage various risks relating to its ongoing business operations. The Company has non-cash collateral from counterparties for derivative financial instruments, which can be sold or repledged subject to certain constraints, and has not been recorded on its consolidated balance sheets. The amount of this collateral was $3.3 billion and $2.5 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, which were held in separate custodial accounts and not recorded on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Liquidity and Capital Resources —The Company — Liquidity and Capital Sources — Collateral Financing Arrangements” included in the 2011 Annual Report and “Derivatives” in Note 4 of the

 

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Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information on the earned income on and the gross notional amount, estimated fair value of assets and liabilities and primary underlying risk exposure of the Company’s derivative financial instruments.

Guarantees

See “Guarantees” in Note 12 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Other

Additionally, the Company has the following commitments in the normal course of business for the purpose of enhancing the Company’s total return on its investment portfolio:

 

   

Commitments to Fund Partnership Investments;

 

   

Mortgage Loan Commitments; and

 

   

Commitments to Fund Bank Credit Facilities, Bridge Loans and Private Corporate Bond Investments.

See “Net Investment Income” and “Net Investment Gains (Losses)” in Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information on the investment income, investment expense, gains and losses from such investments. See also “Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale,” and “Mortgage Loans” in Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and “ — Investments — Real Estate and Real Estate Joint Ventures and Other Limited Partnerships” for information on our investments in fixed maturity securities, mortgage loans and partnership investments.

Other than the commitments disclosed in Note 12 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, there are no other material obligations or liabilities arising from the commitments to fund partnership investments, mortgage loans, bank credit facilities, bridge loans, and private corporate bond investments.

See also “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Liquidity and Capital Resources — The Company — Liquidity and Capital Uses — Contractual Obligations” included in the 2011 Annual Report for further information on commitments to fund partnership investments, mortgage loans, bank credit facilities, bridge loans and private corporate bond investments. In addition, see “Primary Risks Managed by Derivative Financial Instruments and Non-Derivative Financial Instruments” in Note 4 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on interest rate lock commitments.

Policyholder Liabilities

Policyholder Account Balances

PABs are generally equal to the account value, which includes accrued interest credited, but exclude the impact of any applicable surrender charge that may be incurred upon surrender. See Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report and Note 8 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Retail. The Life & Other PABs are held for death benefit disbursement retained asset accounts, universal life policies and the fixed account of variable life insurance policies. PABs are credited interest at a rate set by the Company, which are influenced by current market rates. The majority of the PABs have a guaranteed minimum credited rates between 4.0% and 6.0%. A sustained low interest rate environment could negatively impact earnings as a result of the minimum credited rate guarantees. The Company has various derivative positions, primarily interest rate floors, to partially mitigate the risks associated with such a scenario. For Annuities, PABs are held for fixed deferred annuities and the fixed account portion of variable annuities, for certain income annuities, and for certain portions of guaranteed benefits. PABs are credited interest at a rate set by the Company.

 

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Credited rates for deferred annuities are influenced by current market rates, and most of these contracts have a minimum guaranteed rate between 1.0% and 4.0%. See “— Variable Annuity Guarantees.”

The table below presents the breakdown of account value subject to minimum guaranteed credited rates for Retail:

 

     September 30, 2012  

Guaranteed Minimum Credited Rate

   Account
Value
     Account
Value at
Guarantee
 
     (In millions)  

Life & Other:

     

Greater than 0% but less than 2%

   $ 66      $ 66  

Equal to 2% but less than 4%

   $ 10,546      $ 4,500  

Equal to or greater than 4%

   $ 10,885      $ 6,359  

Annuities:

     

Greater than 0% but less than 2%

   $ 6,267      $ 1,932  

Equal to 2% but less than 4%

   $ 34,356      $ 26,385  

Equal to or greater than 4%

   $ 3,031      $ 2,931  

As a result of acquisitions, the Company establishes additional liabilities known as excess interest reserves for policies with credited rates in excess of market rates as of the acquisition date. At September 30, 2012, excess interest reserves were $149 million and $396 million for Life & Other and Annuities, respectively.

Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits. PABs are held for death benefit disbursement retained asset accounts, universal life policies, the fixed account of variable life insurance policies and specialized life insurance products for benefit programs. PABs are credited interest at a rate set by the Company, which are influenced by current market rates. The majority of the PABs have a guaranteed minimum credited rates between 0.5% and 6.0%. A sustained low interest rate environment could negatively impact earnings as a result of the minimum credited rate guarantees. The Company has various derivative positions, primarily interest rate floors, to partially mitigate the risks associated with such a scenario.

The table below presents the breakdown of account value subject to minimum guaranteed credited rates for Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits:

 

     September 30, 2012  

Guaranteed Minimum Credited Rate

   Account
Value
     Account
Value at
Guarantee
 
     (In millions)  

Greater than 0% but less than 2%

   $ 5,586      $ 5,586  

Equal to 2% but less than 4%

   $ 2,501      $ 2,490  

Equal to or greater than 4%

   $ 560      $ 532  

Corporate Benefit Funding. PABs are comprised of funding agreements. Interest crediting rates vary by type of contract, and can be fixed or variable. Variable interest crediting rates are generally tied to an external index, most commonly (1-month or 3-month) London Inter-Bank Offer Rate (“LIBOR”). MetLife is exposed to interest rate risks, as well as foreign exchange risk when guaranteeing payment of interest and return of principal at the contractual maturity date. The Company may invest in floating rate assets or enter into floating rate swaps, also tied to external indices, as well as caps, to mitigate the impact of changes in market interest rates. The Company also mitigates its risks by implementing an asset/liability matching policy and seeks to hedge all foreign currency exchange rate risk through the use of foreign currency hedges, including cross currency swaps.

 

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Latin America. PABs are held largely for deferred annuities mainly in Mexico and Brazil, and for universal life products mainly in Mexico. Some of the deferred annuities in Brazil are unit-linked-type funds that do not meet the GAAP definition of separate accounts. The rest of the deferred annuities have minimum credited rate guarantees, and these liabilities and the universal life liabilities are generally impacted by sustained periods of low interest rates. Liabilities for unit-linked-type funds are impacted by changes in the fair value of the associated underlying investments, as the return on assets is generally passed directly to the policyholder.

Asia. PABs are held largely for fixed income retirement and savings plans, fixed deferred annuities, interest sensitive whole life products, universal life and, to a lesser degree, amounts for unit-linked-type funds in certain countries that do not meet the GAAP definition of separate accounts. Also included are certain liabilities for retirement and savings products sold in certain countries in Asia that generally are sold with minimum credited rate guarantees. Liabilities for guarantees on certain variable annuities in Asia are accounted for as embedded derivatives and recorded at estimated fair value and are also included within PABs. These liabilities are generally impacted by sustained periods of low interest rates, where there are interest rate guarantees. The Company mitigates its risks by implementing an asset/liability matching policy and by hedging its variable annuity guarantees and with reinsurance. Liabilities for unit-linked-type funds are impacted by changes in the fair value of the associated underlying investments, as the return on assets is generally passed directly to the policyholder. See “— Variable Annuity Guarantees.”

EMEA. PABs are held mostly for universal life, deferred annuity, pension products, and unit-linked-type funds that do not meet the GAAP definition of separate accounts. They are also held for endowment products without significant mortality risk. Where there are interest rate guarantees, these liabilities are generally impacted by sustained periods of low interest rates. The Company mitigates its risks by implementing an asset/liability matching policy. Liabilities for unit-linked-type funds are impacted by changes in the fair value of the associated underlying investments, as the return on assets is generally passed directly to the policyholder.

Corporate & Other. Variable annuity guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits and guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits were assumed from a former operating joint venture in Japan. Liabilities for these guarantees are recorded at estimated fair value and included in PABs. The Company mitigates its risks by hedging its variable annuity guarantees. Liabilities are impacted by changes in the fair value of the associated underlying investments of variable annuity funds, lapse experience and capital market volatility. See “— Variable Annuity Guarantees.”

Variable Annuity Guarantees

The Company issues, directly and through assumed reinsurance, certain variable annuity products with guaranteed minimum benefits that provide the policyholder a minimum return based on their initial deposit (i.e., the benefit base) less withdrawals. See Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report and Note 8 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Guarantees, including portions thereof, accounted for as embedded derivatives, are recorded at estimated fair value and included in PABs. Guarantees accounted for as embedded derivatives include guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits, the non-life-contingent portion of guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits (“GMWB”) and the portion of certain GMIB that do not require annuitization.

The estimated fair values of guarantees accounted for as embedded derivatives are determined based on the present value of projected future benefits minus the present value of projected future fees. The projections of future benefits and future fees require capital market and actuarial assumptions including expectations concerning policyholder behavior. A risk neutral valuation methodology is used to project the cash flows from the guarantees under multiple capital market scenarios to determine an economic liability. The reported estimated fair value is then determined by taking the present value of these risk-free generated cash flows using a discount rate that incorporates a spread over the risk free rate to reflect the Company’s nonperformance risk and adding a risk margin. For more information on the determination of estimated fair value, see Note 5 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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The table below contains the carrying value for guarantees included in PABs at:

 

     September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

The Americas:

    

Guaranteed minimum accumulation benefit

   $ (63   $ 52  

Guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit

     481       710  

Guaranteed minimum income benefit

     274       988  

Asia:

    

Guaranteed minimum accumulation benefit

     17       11  

Guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit

     217       175  

EMEA:

    

Guaranteed minimum accumulation benefit

     31       168  

Guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit

     55         

Corporate & Other:

    

Guaranteed minimum accumulation benefit

     504       515  

Guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit

     2,676       1,825  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ 4,192     $ 4,444  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The carrying amounts above include a nonperformance risk adjustment of $1.7 billion and $2.9 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

The nonperformance risk adjustments represent the impact of including a credit spread when discounting the underlying risk neutral cash flows to determine the estimated fair values. Therefore, the amount of the nonperformance risk adjustment is a function of both the size of the economic liability and credit spreads. In certain periods, changes in the nonperformance risk adjustment can be a significant driver of net derivative gains (losses). Additionally, changes in the underlying cash flows can have a greater impact on the nonperformance risk adjustment than changes in credit spreads. The nonperformance risk adjustment does not have an economic impact on the Company as it cannot be monetized given the nature of these policyholder liabilities.

The estimated fair value of guarantees accounted for as embedded derivatives can change significantly during periods of sizable and sustained shifts in equity market performance, equity volatility, interest rates or foreign currency exchange rates. The Company uses derivative instruments to mitigate the risk of loss and the volatility of net income arising from these market factors. The change in valuation arising from the nonperformance risk adjustment is not hedged.

 

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The table below presents the estimated fair value of the derivatives hedging guarantees accounted for as embedded derivatives:

 

         September 30, 2012     December 31, 2011  

Primary Underlying

Risk Exposure

       Notional     Estimated Fair Value     Notional     Estimated Fair Value  
  

Instrument Type

  Amount     Assets     Liabilities     Amount     Assets     Liabilities  
         (In millions)  

Interest rate

   Interest rate swaps   $ 23,594     $ 2,324     $ 752     $ 22,719     $ 1,869     $ 598  
  

Interest rate futures

    9,579       10       18       11,126       17       16  
  

Interest rate options

    11,440       488       12       11,372       567       6  

Foreign currency

  

Foreign currency forwards

    2,221       6       32       2,311       41       4  
  

Foreign currency futures

    289                     177                

Equity market

   Equity futures     4,759       50       2       4,916       15       10  
  

Equity options

    18,901       3,058       236       16,367       3,239       177  
  

Variance swaps

    19,335       142       239       18,402       390       75  
  

Total rate of return swaps

    1,287       5       60       1,274       8       31  
    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  

Total

  $ 91,405     $ 6,083     $ 1,351     $ 88,664     $ 6,146     $ 917  
    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Guarantees, including portions thereof, have liabilities established that are included in future policy benefits. Guarantees accounted for in this manner include Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefits, the life-contingent portion of certain GMWB, and the portion of GMIB that requires annuitization. These liabilities are accrued over the life of the contract in proportion to actual and future expected policy assessments based on the level of guaranteed minimum benefits generated using multiple scenarios of separate account returns. The scenarios use best estimate assumptions consistent with those used to amortize deferred acquisition costs. When current estimates of future benefits exceed those previously projected or when current estimates of future assessments are lower than those previously projected, liabilities will increase, resulting in a current period charge to net income. The opposite result occurs when the current estimates of future benefits are lower than that previously projected or when current estimates of future assessments exceed those previously projected. At each reporting period, the Company updates the actual amount of business remaining in-force, which impacts expected future assessments and the projection of estimated future benefits resulting in a current period charge or increase to earnings.

The table below contains the carrying value for guarantees included in future policy benefits at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

The Americas:

     

Guaranteed minimum death benefit

   $ 334      $ 260  

Guaranteed minimum income benefit

     872        722  

Asia:

     

Guaranteed minimum death benefit

     10        12  

Life contingent guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit

     143        133  

EMEA:

     

Guaranteed minimum death benefit

     5        4  

Life contingent guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit

     8        17  

Corporate & Other:

     

Guaranteed minimum death benefit

     139        102  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 1,511      $ 1,250  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The carrying amount of guarantees accounted for as insurance liabilities can change significantly during periods of sizable and sustained shifts in equity market performance, increased equity volatility, or changes in

 

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interest rates. The Company uses reinsurance in combination with derivative instruments to mitigate the liability exposure, risk of loss and the volatility of net income associated with these liabilities. Derivative instruments used for risk mitigation are primarily equity futures, equity options and variance swaps.

The net amount at risk (“NAR”) for guarantees can change significantly during periods of sizable and sustained shifts in equity market performance, increased equity volatility, or changes in interest rates. The NAR disclosed in Note 8 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements represents management’s estimate of the current value of the benefits under these guarantees if they were all exercised simultaneously at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011. However, there are features, such as deferral periods and benefits requiring annuitization or death, that limit the amount of benefits that will be payable in the near future.

While the Company believes that the reinsurance and hedging strategies employed for guarantees included in both PABs and in future policy benefits, as well as other risk management actions, have mitigated the risks related to these benefits, the Company remains liable for the guaranteed benefits in the event that reinsurers or derivative counterparties are unable or unwilling to pay. Certain of the Company’s reinsurance agreements and most derivative positions are collateralized and derivatives positions are subject to master netting agreements, both of which significantly reduce the exposure to counterparty risk. In addition, the Company is subject to the risk that hedging and other risk management actions prove ineffective or that unanticipated policyholder behavior or mortality, combined with adverse market events, produces economic losses beyond the scope of the risk management techniques employed.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Overview

Our business and results of operations are materially affected by conditions in the global capital markets and the economy generally. Stressed conditions, volatility and disruptions in global capital markets, particular markets, or financial asset classes can have an adverse effect on us, in part because we have a large investment portfolio and our insurance liabilities are sensitive to changing market factors. The global economy and global markets continue to experience significant volatility that may affect our financing costs and market interest for our securities.

Concerns about economic conditions, capital markets and the solvency of certain European Union member states and of financial institutions that have significant direct or indirect exposure to debt issued by these countries have been a cause of elevated levels of market volatility. Financial markets continue to be affected by concerns over U.S. fiscal policy, including the uncertainty regarding the “fiscal cliff,” which is comprised of a series of tax increases and automatic government spending cuts that will become effective at the beginning of 2013 unless steps are taken to delay or offset them, as well as the need to again raise the U.S. federal government’s debt ceiling by the end of 2012 and reduce the federal deficit. These issues could, on their own, or combined with the slowing of the global economy generally, send the U.S. into a new recession, have severe repercussions to the U.S. and global credit and financial markets, further exacerbate concerns over sovereign debt of other countries and disrupt economic activity in the U.S. and elsewhere. All of these factors could affect the Company’s ability to meet liquidity needs and obtain capital. See “— Industry Trends” and “— Investments — Current Environment.”

Liquidity Management

Based upon the strength of its franchise, diversification of its businesses and strong financial fundamentals, we continue to believe the Company has ample liquidity to meet business requirements under current market conditions and unlikely but reasonably possible stress scenarios. The Company’s short-term liquidity position includes cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments, excluding: (i) cash collateral received under the Company’s securities lending program that has been reinvested in cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and publicly-traded securities, and (ii) cash collateral received from counterparties in connection

 

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with derivative instruments. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Company’s short-term liquidity position was $20.4 billion and $16.2 billion, respectively. We continuously monitor and adjust our liquidity and capital plans for MetLife, Inc. and its subsidiaries in light of changing needs and opportunities. See “ — Investments — Current Environment.”

Capital Management

The Company has established several senior management committees as part of its capital management process. These committees, including the Capital Management Committee and the Enterprise Risk Committee, regularly review actual and projected capital levels (under a variety of scenarios including stress scenarios) and MetLife’s capital plan in accordance with its capital policy. The Capital Management Committee is comprised of members of senior management, including MetLife, Inc.’s Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chief Risk Officer. The Enterprise Risk Committee is also comprised of members of senior management, including MetLife, Inc.’s Chief Financial Officer, Chief Risk Officer and Chief Investment Officer.

MetLife’s Board and senior management are directly involved in the development and maintenance of MetLife’s capital policy. The capital policy sets forth, among other things, minimum and target capital levels and the governance of the capital management process. All capital actions, including proposed changes to the capital plan, capital targets or capital policy, are reviewed by the Finance and Risk Committee of the Board prior to obtaining full Board approval. The Board approves the capital policy and the annual capital plan and authorizes capital actions, as required.

See “— Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — Regulatory Developments Applicable to Bank Holding Companies” and “Risk Factors – Our Ability to Pay Dividends and Repurchase Common Stock is Subject to Regulatory Restrictions and to Restrictions Under the Terms of Certain of Our Securities,” as well as Note 14 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, for information on the Company’s capital plan submitted to the Federal Reserve and restrictions on dividends and stock repurchases.

The Company

Liquidity

Liquidity refers to a company’s ability to generate adequate amounts of cash to meet its needs. In the event of significant cash requirements beyond anticipated liquidity needs, the Company has various alternatives available depending on market conditions and the amount and timing of the liquidity need. These options include cash flows from operations, the sale of liquid assets, global funding sources and various credit facilities.

Capital

The Company’s capital position is managed to maintain its financial strength and credit ratings and is supported by its ability to generate strong cash flows at the operating companies, borrow funds at competitive rates and raise additional capital to meet its operating and growth needs.

 

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Table of Contents

Summary of Primary Sources and Uses of Liquidity and Capital

The Company’s primary sources and uses of liquidity and capital are summarized as follows:

 

     Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
 
     2012      2011  
     (In millions)  

Sources:

     

Net cash provided by operating activities

   $ 15,288      $ 9,034  

Net cash provided by changes in policyholder account balances

     4,720        2,910  

Net cash provided by changes in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions

     4,777        7,661  

Net cash provided by changes in bank deposits

             296  

Net cash provided by short-term debt issuances

             145  

Long-term debt issued

     750        1,346  

Cash received in connection with collateral financing arrangements

             100  

Net change in liability for securitized reverse residential mortgage loans

     1,198          

Common stock issued, net of issuance costs

             2,950  

Stock options exercised

     89        77  

Effect of change in foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents balances

     24        133  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total sources

     26,846        24,652  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Uses:

     

Net cash used in investing activities

     14,075        23,343  

Net cash used for changes in bank deposits

     4,052          

Net cash used for short-term debt repayments

     586          

Long-term debt repaid

     1,106        1,192  

Collateral financing arrangements repaid

     349          

Cash paid in connection with collateral financing arrangements

     44          

Debt issuance costs

     7        1  

Redemption of convertible preferred stock

             2,805  

Preferred stock redemption premium

             146  

Dividends on preferred stock

     91        91  

Net cash used in other, net

     47        68  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total uses

     20,357        27,646  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

   $ 6,489      $ (2,994
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liquidity and Capital Sources

Cash Flows from Operations. The Company’s principal cash inflows from its insurance activities come from insurance premiums, annuity considerations and deposit funds. A primary liquidity concern with respect to these cash inflows is the risk of early contractholder and policyholder withdrawal.

Cash Flows from Investments. The Company’s principal cash inflows from its investment activities come from repayments of principal, proceeds from maturities, sales of invested assets, settlements of freestanding derivatives and net investment income. The primary liquidity concerns with respect to these cash inflows are the risk of default by debtors and market disruption. The Company closely monitors and manages these risks through its credit risk management process.

Liquid Assets. An integral part of the Company’s liquidity management is the amount of liquid assets it holds. Liquid assets include cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and publicly-traded securities, excluding:

 

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(i) cash collateral received under the Company’s securities lending program that has been reinvested in cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and publicly-traded securities; (ii) cash collateral received from counterparties in connection with derivative instruments; (iii) cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and securities on deposit with regulatory agencies; and (iv) securities held in trust in support of collateral financing arrangements and pledged in support of debt and funding agreements, derivative transactions and short sale agreements. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Company had $291.1 billion and $258.9 billion, respectively, in liquid assets.

Global Funding Sources. Liquidity is provided by a variety of short-term instruments, including funding agreements, credit facilities and commercial paper. Capital is provided by a variety of instruments, including short-term and long-term debt, preferred securities, junior subordinated debt securities and equity and equity-linked securities. The diversity of the Company’s funding sources enhances funding flexibility, limits dependence on any one market or source of funds and generally lowers the cost of funds. The Company’s global funding sources include:

 

   

MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Funding, Inc. (“MetLife Funding”) each have commercial paper programs supported by $4.0 billion in general corporate credit facilities (see “— The Company — Liquidity and Capital Sources — Credit and Committed Facilities”). MetLife Funding, a subsidiary of Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (“MLIC”), serves as a centralized finance unit for the Company. MetLife Funding raises cash from its commercial paper program and uses the proceeds to extend loans, through MetLife Credit Corp., another subsidiary of MLIC, to MetLife, Inc., MLIC and other affiliates in order to enhance the financial flexibility and liquidity of these companies. Outstanding balances for the commercial paper program fluctuate in line with changes to affiliates’ financing arrangements. Pursuant to a support agreement, MLIC has agreed to cause MetLife Funding to have a tangible net worth of at least one dollar. At both September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, MetLife Funding had a tangible net worth of $12 million. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, MetLife Funding had total outstanding liabilities for its commercial paper program, including accrued interest payable, of $100 million and $101 million, respectively. At both September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, MetLife, Inc. had no outstanding liabilities for its commercial paper program.

 

   

MetLife Bank has historically taken advantage of collateralized borrowing opportunities with the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (“FHLB of NY”) to meet variable funding requirements from residential mortgage originations, to term fund certain assets, and as an alternate source of liquidity. In January 2012, MetLife Bank discontinued taking advances from the FHLB of NY. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, MetLife Bank had outstanding advances from the FHLB of NY of $0 and $4.8 billion, respectively. In April 2012, MetLife Bank transferred cash to MLIC related to $3.8 billion of outstanding advances, and MLIC assumed the associated obligations under terms similar to those of the transferred advances. In connection with the MetLife Bank Events, there will be timing differences in MetLife Bank’s cash flows giving rise to short-term liquidity needs. In order to meet these needs, MetLife, Inc. will provide MetLife Bank with temporary liquidity support through a combination of internally and externally sourced funds. See “— MetLife, Inc. — Capital” and “— MetLife, Inc. — Liquidity and Capital Uses — Support Agreements.”

 

   

The Company had obligations under advances evidenced by funding agreements with the FHLB of NY of $13.5 billion and $11.7 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, for MLIC, which are included in PABs. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, the Company issued $12.9 billion and $5.8 billion and repaid $11.1 billion and $6.6 billion, respectively, of such funding agreements. See Note 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report. In connection with the aforementioned MetLife Bank transfer of advances agreements and associated transfer of cash to MLIC in April 2012, MLIC issued funding agreements to the FHLB of NY under similar terms, which are included in the total issuances for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.

 

   

The Company had obligations under advances evidenced by funding agreements with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston (“FHLB of Boston”) of $450 million at both September 30, 2012 and December 31,

 

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2011, for MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut (“MICC”), which are included in PABs. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, the Company issued $0 and $400 million and repaid $0 and $50 million, respectively, of such funding agreements. See Note 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report.

 

   

The Company had obligations under advances evidenced by funding agreements with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (“FHLB of Des Moines”) of $1.4 billion and $695 million at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, for General American Life Insurance Company and MetLife Investors Insurance Company, which are included in PABs. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, the Company issued $2.2 billion and $845 million and repaid $1.5 billion and $150 million, respectively, of such funding agreements. See Note 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report.

 

   

The Company issues fixed and floating rate funding agreements, which are denominated in either U.S. dollars or foreign currencies, to certain special purpose entities (“SPEs”) that have issued either debt securities or commercial paper for which payment of interest and principal is secured by such funding agreements. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, the Company issued $30.2 billion and $29.8 billion and repaid $25.5 billion and $32.0 billion, respectively, of such funding agreements. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, funding agreements outstanding, which are included in PABs, were $30.5 billion and $25.5 billion, respectively. See Note 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report.

 

   

The Company issued funding agreements to the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (“Farmer Mac”) and to certain SPEs that have issued debt securities for which payment of interest and principal is secured by such funding agreements; such debt securities are also guaranteed as to payment of interest and principal by Farmer Mac. The obligations under all such funding agreements are secured by a pledge of certain eligible agricultural real estate mortgage loans and may, under certain circumstances, be secured by other qualified collateral. The amount of the Company’s liability for funding agreements issued was $2.8 billion at both September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, which is included in PABs. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, the Company issued $0 and $1.5 billion and repaid $0 and $1.5 billion, respectively, of such funding agreements. See Note 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report.

Outstanding Debt. The following table summarizes the outstanding debt of the Company at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

Short-term debt

   $ 100      $ 686  

Long-term debt (1)

   $ 16,888      $ 20,624  

Collateral financing arrangements

   $ 4,196      $ 4,647  

Junior subordinated debt securities

   $ 3,192      $ 3,192  

 

 

(1)

Excludes $2.7 billion and $3.1 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, of long-term debt relating to CSEs. See Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Debt Issuances and Other Borrowings. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, MetLife Bank received advances related to long-term borrowings totaling $0 and $1.3 billion, respectively, from the FHLB of NY. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, MetLife Bank received advances related to short-term borrowings totaling $150 million and $5.8 billion, respectively, from the FHLB of NY.

In August 2012, MetLife, Inc. issued $750 million of senior notes due in August 2042. The senior notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 4.125% payable semi-annually. In connection with the issuance, MetLife, Inc. incurred $7 million of related costs which have been capitalized and included in other assets. These costs are being amortized over the term of the senior notes.

 

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Collateral Financing Arrangements. See Note 11 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Remarketing of Senior Debt Securities and Settlement of Stock Purchase Contracts. See Note 19 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Credit and Committed Facilities. The Company maintains unsecured credit facilities and committed facilities, which aggregated $4.0 billion and $12.4 billion, respectively, at September 30, 2012. When drawn upon, these facilities bear interest at varying rates in accordance with the respective agreements. See Note 11 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report.

The unsecured credit facilities are used for general corporate purposes, to support the borrowers’ commercial paper programs and for the issuance of letters of credit. At September 30, 2012, the Company had outstanding $2.1 billion in letters of credit and no drawdowns against these facilities. Remaining unused commitments were $1.9 billion at September 30, 2012.

In September 2012, MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Funding entered into a $1.0 billion five-year credit agreement which amended and restated the three-year agreement dated October 2010. All borrowings under the 2012 five-year credit agreement must be repaid by September 2017, except that letters of credit outstanding on that date may remain outstanding until no later than September 2018. MetLife, Inc. incurred costs of $4 million related to the amended and restated credit facility, which have been capitalized and included in other assets. These costs will be amortized over the remaining term of the amended and restated facility.

The committed facilities are used for collateral for certain of the Company’s affiliated reinsurance liabilities. At September 30, 2012, the Company had outstanding $6.0 billion in letters of credit and $2.8 billion in aggregate drawdowns against these facilities. Remaining unused commitments were $3.6 billion at September 30, 2012.

We have no reason to believe that our lending counterparties will be unable to fulfill their respective contractual obligations under these facilities. As commitments associated with letters of credit and financing arrangements may expire unused, these amounts do not necessarily reflect the Company’s actual future cash funding requirements.

Covenants. Certain of the Company’s debt instruments, credit facilities and committed facilities contain various administrative, reporting, legal and financial covenants. The Company believes it was in compliance with all such covenants at September 30, 2012.

Common Stock. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, MetLife, Inc. issued 4,689,799 and 3,152,662 new shares of common stock for $148 million and $103 million, respectively, to satisfy various stock option exercises and other stock-based awards. For a discussion of common stock issued in connection with the remarketing of senior debt securities and settlement of stock purchase contracts, see Note 19 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Liquidity and Capital Uses

Debt Repayments. In June 2012, MetLife, Inc. repaid its $397 million senior note with an interest rate of three-month LIBOR + 0.32%. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, MetLife Bank made repayments of $374 million and $690 million, respectively, to the FHLB of NY related to long-term borrowings. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, MetLife Bank made repayments to the FHLB of NY related to short-term borrowings of $735 million and $5.6 billion, respectively.

Debt Repurchases. We may from time to time seek to retire or purchase our outstanding debt through cash purchases and/or exchanges for other securities, in open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. Any such repurchases or exchanges will be dependent upon several factors, including our liquidity

 

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requirements, contractual restrictions, general market conditions, and applicable regulatory, legal and accounting factors. Whether or not to repurchase any debt and the size and timing of any such repurchases will be determined in the Company’s discretion.

Insurance Liabilities. The Company’s principal cash outflows primarily relate to the liabilities associated with its various life insurance, property and casualty, annuity and group pension products, operating expenses and income tax, as well as principal and interest on its outstanding debt obligations. Liabilities arising from its insurance activities primarily relate to benefit payments under the aforementioned products, as well as payments for policy surrenders, withdrawals and loans. For annuity or deposit type products, surrender or lapse product behavior differs somewhat by segment. In the Retail segment, which includes individual annuities, lapses and surrenders tend to occur in the normal course of business. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, general account surrenders and withdrawals from annuity products were $3.1 billion and $2.8 billion, respectively. In Corporate Benefit Funding, which includes pension closeouts, bank-owned life insurance and other fixed annuity contracts, as well as funding agreements (including funding agreements with the FHLB of NY, the FHLB of Des Moines and the FHLB of Boston) and other capital market products, most of the products offered have fixed maturities or fairly predictable surrenders or withdrawals. With regard to Corporate Benefit Funding liabilities that provide customers with limited liquidity rights, at September 30, 2012 there were $3.2 billion of funding agreements and other capital market products that could be put back to the Company after a period of notice. Of these liabilities, $535 million were subject to a notice period of 90 days. The remainder was subject to a notice period of five months or greater.

Dividends. Common stock dividend decisions are determined by MetLife, Inc.’s Board of Directors after taking into consideration factors such as the Company’s current earnings, expected medium-term and long-term earnings, financial condition, regulatory capital position, and applicable governmental regulations and policies. The payment of dividends and other distributions by MetLife, Inc. to its security holders is subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve. See “Risk Factors — Our Ability to Pay Dividends and Repurchase Common Stock is Subject to Regulatory Restrictions and to Restrictions Under the Terms of Certain of Our Securities” and Note 19 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Information on the declaration, record and payment dates, as well as per share and aggregate dividend amounts, for Preferred Stock is as follows for the nine months ended September 30, 2012:

 

     Record Date     Payment Date     Dividend  

Declaration Date

       Series A Per
Share
     Series A
Aggregate
    Series B
Per Share
    Series B
Aggregate
 
                 (In millions, except per share data)  

August 15, 2012

     August 31, 2012        September 17, 2012      $ 0.2555555      $ 6     $ 0.4062500     $ 24  

May 15, 2012

     May 31, 2012        June 15, 2012      $ 0.2555555        7     $ 0.4062500       24  

March 5, 2012

     February 29, 2012        March 15, 2012      $ 0.2527777        6     $ 0.4062500       24  
         

 

 

     

 

 

 
          $ 19       $ 72  
         

 

 

     

 

 

 

Residential Mortgage Loans Held-for-Sale. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Company held $1.2 billion and $15.2 billion, respectively, in residential mortgage loans held-for-sale. Securitized reverse residential mortgage loans were funded through issuance of GNMA securities, for which the corresponding liability at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 of $0 and $7.7 billion, respectively, is included in other liabilities. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Investment and Other. Additional cash outflows include those related to obligations of securities lending activities, investments in real estate, limited partnerships and joint ventures, as well as litigation-related liabilities. Also, the Company pledges collateral to, and has collateral pledged to it by, counterparties under the Company’s current derivative transactions. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Company was obligated to return cash collateral under its control of $8.6 billion and $9.5 billion, respectively. See “— Investments — Derivative Financial Instruments — Credit Risk.” With respect to derivative transactions

 

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with credit ratings downgrade triggers, a two-notch downgrade would have increased the Company’s derivative collateral requirements by $98 million at September 30, 2012. In addition, the Company has pledged collateral and has had collateral pledged to it, and may be required from time to time to pledge additional collateral or be entitled to have additional collateral pledged to it, in connection with collateral financing arrangements related to the reinsurance of closed block liabilities and universal life secondary guarantee liabilities.

Securities Lending. The Company participates in a securities lending program whereby blocks of securities, which are included in fixed maturity securities, short-term investments, equity securities and cash and cash equivalents, are loaned to third parties, primarily brokerage firms and commercial banks. The Company obtains collateral, usually cash, from the borrower, which must be returned to the borrower when the loaned securities are returned to the Company. Under the Company’s securities lending program, the Company was liable for cash collateral under its control of $29.9 billion and $24.2 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. Of these amounts, $5.8 billion and $2.7 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, were on open, meaning that the related loaned security could be returned to the Company on the next business day upon return of cash collateral. The estimated fair value of the securities on loan related to the cash collateral on open at September 30, 2012 was $5.7 billion, of which $5.4 billion were U.S. Treasury and agency securities which, if put to the Company, can be immediately sold to satisfy the cash requirements. See “— Investments — Securities Lending” for further information.

Contractual Obligations. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Liquidity and Capital Resources — The Company — Liquidity and Capital Uses — Contractual Obligations” included in the 2011 Annual Report for additional information on the Company’s contractual obligations.

Support Agreements. MetLife, Inc. and several of its subsidiaries (each, an “Obligor”) are parties to various capital support commitments, guarantees and contingent reinsurance agreements with certain subsidiaries of MetLife, Inc. Under these arrangements, each Obligor, with respect to the applicable entity, has agreed to cause such entity to meet specified capital and surplus levels, has guaranteed certain contractual obligations or has agreed to provide, upon the occurrence of certain contingencies, reinsurance for such entity’s insurance liabilities. We anticipate that, in the event that these arrangements place demands upon the Company, there will be sufficient liquidity and capital to enable the Company to meet anticipated demands.

In July 2012, in connection with an operating agreement with the OCC governing MetLife Bank’s operations during its wind-down process, MetLife Bank and MetLife, Inc. entered into a capital support agreement with the OCC and MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Bank entered into an indemnification and capital maintenance agreement under which agreements MetLife, Inc. will provide financial and other support to MetLife Bank to ensure that MetLife Bank can wind down its operations in a safe and sound manner. See “— Liquidity and Capital Resources — MetLife, Inc. — Liquidity and Capital Uses — Support Agreements.”

Litigation. Putative or certified class action litigation and other litigation, and claims and assessments against the Company, in addition to those discussed elsewhere herein and those otherwise provided for in the Company’s consolidated financial statements, have arisen in the course of the Company’s business, including, but not limited to, in connection with its activities as an insurer, mortgage lending bank, employer, investor, investment advisor and taxpayer. Further, state insurance regulatory authorities and other federal and state authorities regularly make inquiries and conduct investigations concerning the Company’s compliance with applicable insurance and other laws and regulations. See Note 12 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

The Company establishes liabilities for litigation and regulatory loss contingencies when it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. For material matters where a loss is believed to be reasonably possible but not probable, no accrual is made but the Company discloses the nature of the contingency and an aggregate estimate of the reasonably possible range of loss in excess of amounts accrued, when such an estimate can be made. It is not possible to predict or determine the ultimate outcome of all pending investigations and legal proceedings. In some of the matters referred to herein, very large and/or indeterminate

 

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amounts, including punitive and treble damages, are sought. Although in light of these considerations, it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain cases could have a material adverse effect upon the Company’s financial position, based on information currently known by the Company’s management, in its opinion, the outcome of such pending investigations and legal proceedings are not likely to have such an effect. However, given the large and/or indeterminate amounts sought in certain of these matters and the inherent unpredictability of litigation, it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain matters could, from time to time, have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated net income or cash flows in particular quarterly or annual periods.

MetLife, Inc.

Capital

Restrictions and Limitations on Bank Holding Companies and Financial Holding Companies. MetLife, Inc. and its insured depository institution subsidiary, MetLife Bank, are subject to risk-based and leverage capital guidelines issued by the federal banking regulatory agencies for banks and bank and financial holding companies. The federal banking regulatory agencies are required by law to take specific prompt corrective actions with respect to institutions that do not meet minimum capital standards. As of September 30, 2012, all of MetLife, Inc.’s and MetLife Bank’s risk-based and leverage capital ratios met the federal banking regulatory agencies’ “well capitalized” standards. In addition to requirements which may be imposed in connection with the implementation of Dodd-Frank, such as the enhanced prudential standards under proposed Regulation YY, the adoption of the Bank Capital NPRs, stress testing and other regulatory initiatives will also lead to increased capital and liquidity requirements for bank holding companies, such as MetLife, Inc. See “— Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — Regulatory Developments Applicable to Bank Holding Companies” and “Risk Factors — Our Insurance, Brokerage and Banking Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation and in Supervisory and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth.” See also “Business — U.S. Regulation” included in the 2011 Annual Report. See Note 2 to the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding the Company’s progress toward deregistering as a bank holding company. If MetLife is able to deregister as a bank holding company, it may be subject to some of the same or other enhanced regulatory requirements if, in the future, it is designated as a non-bank SIFI or as a G-SII. See “— Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — Regulatory Developments Relating to Non-Bank SIFIs and G-SIIs.”

Liquidity and Capital Sources

Dividends from Subsidiaries. MetLife, Inc. relies in part on dividends from its subsidiaries to meet its cash requirements. MetLife, Inc.’s insurance subsidiaries are subject to regulatory restrictions on the payment of dividends imposed by the regulators of their respective domiciles. The dividend limitation for U.S. insurance subsidiaries is generally based on the surplus to policyholders at the end of the immediately preceding calendar year and statutory net gain from operations for the immediately preceding calendar year. Statutory accounting practices, as prescribed by insurance regulators of various states in which the Company conducts business, differ in certain respects from accounting principles used in financial statements prepared in conformity with GAAP. The significant differences relate to the treatment of DAC, certain deferred income tax, required investment liabilities, statutory reserve calculation assumptions, goodwill and surplus notes.

The table below sets forth the dividends permitted to be paid by the respective insurance subsidiary without insurance regulatory approval and the respective dividends paid:

 

     2012  

Company

   Paid     Permitted w/o
Approval (1)
 
     (In millions)  

Metropolitan Life Insurance Company

   $ —        $ 1,350  

American Life Insurance Company

   $ 1,000 (2)    $ 168  

MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut

   $ 202 (3)    $ 504  

Metropolitan Tower Life Insurance Company

   $ —        $ 82  

MetLife Investors Insurance Company

   $ —        $ 18  

Delaware American Life Insurance Company

   $ —        $ 12  

 

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(1)

Reflects dividend amounts that may be paid during 2012 without prior regulatory approval. However, because dividend tests may be based on dividends previously paid over rolling 12-month periods, if paid before a specified date during 2012, some or all of such dividends may require regulatory approval. No available amounts were paid by the above subsidiaries to MetLife, Inc. during the nine months ended September 30, 2012, except as described for American Life and MICC.

 

(2)

During May 2012, American Life received regulatory approval to pay an extraordinary dividend for an amount up to the funds remitted in connection with the Company’s restructuring of American Life’s business in Japan. The dividend may be paid in installments by November 30, 2012. Subsequently, $1.5 billion was remitted to American Life. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Of this approved amount, $1.0 billion was paid to MetLife, Inc. as an extraordinary dividend, during May 2012, which included the $168 million otherwise permitted to be paid without approval later in 2012, due to the timing of such dividend.

 

(3)

During June 2012, MICC distributed shares of an affiliate to MetLife, Inc. as an in-kind extraordinary dividend of $202 million as calculated on a statutory basis. Regulatory approval for this extraordinary dividend was obtained due to the timing of payment. Remaining dividends permitted to be paid in 2012 without regulatory approval total $302 million.

The dividend capacity of our non-U.S. operations is subject to similar restrictions established by the local regulators. The non-U.S. regulatory regimes also commonly limit the dividend payments to the parent to a portion of the prior year’s statutory income, as determined by the local accounting principles. The regulators of our non-U.S. operations, including Japan’s Financial Services Agency, may also limit or not permit profit repatriations or other transfers of funds to the U.S. if such transfers are deemed to be detrimental to the solvency or financial strength of the non-U.S. operations, or for other reasons. Most of the non-U.S. subsidiaries are second tier subsidiaries which are owned by various non-U.S. holding companies. The capital and rating considerations applicable to the first tier subsidiaries may also impact the dividend flow into MetLife, Inc.

The Company’s management actively manages its target and excess capital levels and dividend flows on a proactive basis and forecasts local capital positions as part of the financial planning cycle. The dividend capacity of certain U.S. and non-U.S. subsidiaries is also subject to business targets in excess of the minimum capital necessary to maintain the desired rating or level of financial strength in the relevant market. Management of MetLife, Inc. cannot provide assurances that MetLife, Inc.’s subsidiaries will have statutory earnings to support payment of dividends to MetLife, Inc. in an amount sufficient to fund its cash requirements and pay cash dividends and that the applicable regulators will not disapprove any dividends that such subsidiaries must submit for approval. See “Risk Factors — As a Holding Company, MetLife, Inc. Depends on the Ability of Its Subsidiaries to Transfer Funds to It to Meet Its Obligations and Pay Dividends” and Note 18 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report.

Liquid Assets. An integral part of MetLife, Inc.’s liquidity management is the amount of liquid assets it holds. Liquid assets include cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and publicly-traded securities, excluding: (i) cash collateral received under the Company’s securities lending program that has been reinvested in cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and publicly-traded securities; (ii) cash collateral received from counterparties in connection with derivative instruments; and (iii) securities held in trust in support of collateral financing arrangements and pledged in support of advances agreements and derivative transactions. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, MetLife, Inc. and other MetLife holding companies had $5.7 billion and $4.2 billion, respectively, in liquid assets. Of these amounts, $5.0 billion and $3.8 billion at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, were held by MetLife, Inc.

Global Funding Sources. Liquidity is also provided by a variety of short-term instruments, including commercial paper. Capital is provided by a variety of instruments, including medium- and long-term debt, junior subordinated debt securities, collateral financing arrangements, capital securities and stockholders’ equity. The

 

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diversity of MetLife, Inc.’s funding sources enhances funding flexibility, limits dependence on any one source of funds and generally lowers the cost of funds. Other sources of MetLife, Inc.’s liquidity include programs for short-term and long-term borrowing, as needed.

We continuously monitor and adjust our liquidity and capital plans in light of changing requirements and market conditions.

Long-term Debt. The following table summarizes the outstanding long-term debt of MetLife, Inc. at:

 

     September 30, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     (In millions)  

Long-term debt — unaffiliated

   $ 16,061      $ 15,666  

Long-term debt — affiliated (1)

   $ 1,000      $ 500  

Collateral financing arrangements

   $ 2,797      $ 2,797  

Junior subordinated debt securities

   $ 1,748      $ 1,748  

 

 

  (1)

In September 2012, $750 million of senior notes held by MLIC were reassigned from Exeter Reassurance Company (“Exeter”), an affiliate, to MetLife, Inc. MetLife, Inc. received $750 million of preferred stock of Exeter in exchange for the assumed debt. In September 2012, $250 million of the assumed senior notes matured, and in October 2012, $250 million of senior notes were then issued by MetLife, Inc. to MLIC. The $500 million of senior notes maturing in June 2014 bear interest at a fixed rate of 6.44%, payable semi-annually. The $250 million of senior notes maturing in October 2019 bear interest at a fixed rate of 3.57%, payable semi-annually.

Covenants. Certain of MetLife, Inc.’s debt instruments, credit facilities and committed facilities contain various administrative, reporting, legal and financial covenants. MetLife, Inc. believes it was in compliance with all such covenants at September 30, 2012.

Common Stock. For information on common stock issued by MetLife, Inc., see “— The Company — Liquidity and Capital Sources — Common Stock.”

Liquidity and Capital Uses

The primary uses of liquidity of MetLife, Inc. include debt service, cash dividends on common and preferred stock, capital contributions to subsidiaries, payment of general operating expenses and acquisitions. Based on our analysis and comparison of our current and future cash inflows from the dividends we receive from subsidiaries that are permitted to be paid without prior insurance regulatory approval, our asset portfolio and other cash flows and anticipated access to the capital markets, we believe there will be sufficient liquidity and capital to enable MetLife, Inc. to make payments on debt, make cash dividend payments on its common and preferred stock, contribute capital to its subsidiaries, pay all general operating expenses and meet its cash needs.

Affiliated Capital Transactions. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, MetLife, Inc. invested an aggregate of $1.6 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively, in various subsidiaries.

MetLife, Inc. lends funds, as necessary, to its subsidiaries, some of which are regulated, to meet their capital requirements. In March 2012, American Life issued a note to MetLife, Inc. for $175 million which American Life repaid in June 2012. At December 31, 2011, MetLife, Inc. did not have any loans to subsidiaries outstanding.

Debt Repayments. In June 2012, MetLife, Inc. repaid a $397 million senior note with an interest rate of three-month LIBOR + 0.32%. MetLife, Inc. intends to repay all or refinance in whole or in part the debt that is due in 2012. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Liquidity and Capital Resources — MetLife, Inc. — Liquidity and Capital Sources — Senior Notes” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

 

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Support Agreements. MetLife, Inc. is party to various capital support commitments and guarantees with certain of its subsidiaries. Under these arrangements, MetLife, Inc. has agreed to cause each such entity to meet specified capital and surplus levels or has guaranteed certain contractual obligations.

In July 2012, in connection with an operating agreement with the OCC governing MetLife Bank’s operations during its wind-down process, MetLife Bank and MetLife, Inc. entered into a capital support agreement with the OCC and MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Bank entered into an indemnification and capital maintenance agreement under which agreements MetLife, Inc. will provide financial and other support to MetLife Bank to ensure that MetLife Bank can wind down its operations in a safe and sound manner. Pursuant to the agreements, MetLife, Inc. is required to ensure that MetLife Bank meets or exceeds certain minimum capital and liquidity requirements once its FDIC insurance has been terminated and make indemnification payments to MetLife Bank in connection with MetLife Bank’s obligation under the April 2011 consent decree between MetLife Bank and the OCC.

Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 1 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Future Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 1 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Subsequent Events

See Note 19 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Risk Management

The Company manages, measures and monitors the market risk associated with its assets and liabilities. It has developed an integrated process for managing risk, which it conducts through its Global Risk Management Department, Asset/Liability Management Unit, Treasury Department and Investments Department along with the management of the business segments. The Company has established and implemented comprehensive policies and procedures at both the corporate and business segment level to minimize the effects of potential market volatility.

The Company regularly analyzes its exposure to interest rate, equity market price and foreign currency exchange rate risks. As a result of that analysis, the Company has determined that the estimated fair values of certain assets and liabilities are materially exposed to changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and changes in the equity markets.

Global Risk Management. MetLife has established several financial and non-financial senior management committees as part of its risk management process. These committees manage capital and risk positions, approve ALM strategies and establish appropriate corporate business standards. Further enhancing its committee structure, during the second quarter of 2010, MetLife created an Enterprise Risk Committee. The Enterprise Risk Committee is comprised of members of senior management, including Metlife, Inc.’s Chief Financial Officer, Chief Risk Officer and Chief Investment Officer. This committee is responsible for reviewing all material risks to the enterprise and deciding on actions if necessary, in the event risks exceed desirable targets, taking into consideration best practices to resolve or mitigate those risks.

MetLife also has a separate Global Risk Management Department, which is responsible for risk management throughout MetLife and reports to MetLife’s Chief Risk Officer, who reports to MetLife’s Chief Executive Officer. The Global Risk Management Department’s primary responsibilities consist of:

 

   

implementing a corporate risk framework, which outlines the Company’s approach for managing risk on an enterprise-wide basis;

 

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developing policies and procedures for managing, measuring, monitoring and controlling those risks identified in the corporate risk framework;

 

   

establishing appropriate corporate risk tolerance levels;

 

   

deploying capital on an economic capital basis; and

 

   

reporting on a periodic basis to the Finance and Risk Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors; with respect to credit risk, reporting to the Investment Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors; and reporting on various aspects of risk to financial and non-financial senior management committees.

Asset/Liability Management. The Company actively manages its assets using an approach that balances quality, diversification, asset/liability matching, liquidity, concentration and investment return. The goals of the investment process are to optimize, net of income tax, risk-adjusted investment income and risk-adjusted total return while ensuring that the assets and liabilities are reasonably managed on a cash flow and duration basis. The ALM process is the shared responsibility of the ALM Unit, Global Risk Management, the Portfolio Management Unit, and the senior members of the business segments and is governed by the ALM Committees. The ALM Committees’ duties include reviewing and approving target portfolios, establishing investment guidelines and limits and providing oversight of the ALM process on a periodic basis. The directives of the ALM Committees are carried out and monitored through ALM Working Groups which are set up to manage by product type. In addition, an ALM Steering Committee oversees the activities of the underlying ALM Committees.

MetLife establishes target asset portfolios for each major insurance product, which represent the investment strategies used to profitably fund its liabilities within acceptable levels of risk. These strategies are monitored through regular review of portfolio metrics, such as effective duration, yield curve sensitivity, convexity, liquidity, asset sector concentration and credit quality by the ALM Working Groups.

Market Risk Exposures

The Company has exposure to market risk through its insurance operations and investment activities. For purposes of this disclosure, “market risk” is defined as the risk of loss resulting from changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and equity markets.

Interest Rates. The Company’s exposure to interest rate changes results most significantly from its holdings of fixed maturity securities, as well as its interest rate sensitive liabilities. The fixed maturity securities include U.S. and foreign government bonds, securities issued by government agencies, corporate bonds and mortgage-backed securities, all of which are mainly exposed to changes in medium- and long-term interest rates. The interest rate sensitive liabilities for purposes of this disclosure include debt, PABs related to certain investment type contracts, and net embedded derivatives on variable annuities with guaranteed minimum benefits which have the same type of interest rate exposure (medium- and long-term interest rates) as fixed maturity securities. The Company employs product design, pricing and ALM strategies to reduce the potential effects of interest rate movements. Product design and pricing strategies include the use of surrender charges or restrictions on withdrawals in some products and the ability to reset credited rates for certain products. ALM strategies include the use of derivatives and duration mismatch limits. See “Risk Factors — Changes in Market Interest Rates May Significantly Affect Our Profitability.”

Foreign Currency Exchange Rates. The Company’s exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates against the U.S. dollar results from its holdings in non-U.S. dollar denominated fixed maturity and equity securities, mortgage loans, and certain liabilities, as well as through its investments in foreign subsidiaries. The principal currencies that create foreign currency exchange rate risk in the Company’s investment portfolios and liabilities are the Euro, the Japanese yen and the British pound. Selectively, the Company uses U.S. dollar assets to support certain long duration foreign currency liabilities. Through its investments in foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures, the Company is primarily exposed to the Japanese yen, the British pound, the Australian dollar,

 

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the Mexican peso and the Korean won. In addition to hedging with foreign currency swaps, forwards and options, local surplus in some countries is held entirely or in part in U.S. dollar assets which further minimizes exposure to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuation risk. The Company has matched much of its foreign currency liabilities in its foreign subsidiaries with their respective foreign currency assets, thereby reducing its risk to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuation. See “Risk Factors — Fluctuations in Foreign Currency Exchange Rates Could Negatively Affect Our Profitability” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

Equity Market. The Company has exposure to equity market risk through certain liabilities that involve long-term guarantees on equity performance such as net embedded derivatives on variable annuities with guaranteed minimum benefits, certain PABs, along with investments in equity securities. We manage this risk on an integrated basis with other risks through our ALM strategies including the dynamic hedging of certain variable annuity guarantee benefits. The Company also manages equity market risk exposure in its investment portfolio through the use of derivatives. Equity exposures associated with other limited partnership interests are excluded from this section as they are not considered financial instruments under GAAP.

Management of Market Risk Exposures

The Company uses a variety of strategies to manage interest rate, foreign currency exchange rate and equity market risk, including the use of derivative instruments.

Interest Rate Risk Management. To manage interest rate risk, the Company analyzes interest rate risk using various models, including multi-scenario cash flow projection models that forecast cash flows of the liabilities and their supporting investments, including derivative instruments. These projections involve evaluating the potential gain or loss on most of the Company’s in-force business under various increasing and decreasing interest rate environments. The Department of Financial Services regulations require that MetLife perform some of these analyses annually as part of MetLife’s review of the sufficiency of its regulatory reserves. For several of its legal entities, the Company maintains segmented operating and surplus asset portfolios for the purpose of ALM and the allocation of investment income to product lines. For each segment, invested assets greater than or equal to the GAAP liabilities and any non-invested assets allocated to the segment are maintained, with any excess swept to the surplus segment. The business segments may reflect differences in legal entity, statutory line of business and any product market characteristic which may drive a distinct investment strategy with respect to duration, liquidity or credit quality of the invested assets. Certain smaller entities make use of unsegmented general accounts for which the investment strategy reflects the aggregate characteristics of liabilities in those entities. The Company measures relative sensitivities of the value of its assets and liabilities to changes in key assumptions utilizing Company models. These models reflect specific product characteristics and include assumptions based on current and anticipated experience regarding lapse, mortality and interest crediting rates. In addition, these models include asset cash flow projections reflecting interest payments, sinking fund payments, principal payments, bond calls, mortgage prepayments and defaults.

Common industry metrics, such as duration and convexity, are also used to measure the relative sensitivity of assets and liability values to changes in interest rates. In computing the duration of liabilities, consideration is given to all policyholder guarantees and to how the Company intends to set indeterminate policy elements such as interest credits or dividends. Each asset portfolio has a duration target based on the liability duration and the investment objectives of that portfolio. Where a liability cash flow may exceed the maturity of available assets, as is the case with certain retirement and non-medical health products, the Company may support such liabilities with equity investments, derivatives or curve mismatch strategies.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk Management. Foreign currency exchange rate risk is assumed primarily in three ways: investments in foreign subsidiaries, purchases of foreign currency denominated investments in the investment portfolio and the sale of certain insurance products.

 

   

The Company’s Foreign Exchange Committee, in coordination with the Treasury Department, is responsible for managing the exposure to investments in foreign subsidiaries. Limits to exposures are established and monitored by the Treasury Department and managed by the Investments Department.

 

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The Investments Department is responsible for managing the exposure to foreign currency investments. Exposure limits to unhedged foreign currency investments are incorporated into the standing authorizations granted to management by the Board of Directors and are reported to the Board of Directors on a periodic basis.

 

   

The segments’ management is responsible for establishing limits and managing any foreign exchange rate exposure caused by the sale or issuance of insurance products.

MetLife uses foreign currency swaps, forwards and options to mitigate the liability exposure, risk of loss and the volatility of net income associated with its investments in foreign subsidiaries, foreign currency denominated fixed income investments and the sale of certain insurance products.

Equity Market Risk Management. Equity market risk exposure through the issuance of variable annuities is managed by the Company’s Asset/Liability Management Unit in partnership with the Investments Department. Equity market risk is realized through its investment in equity securities and is managed by its Investments Department. MetLife uses derivatives to mitigate its equity exposure both in certain liability guarantees such as variable annuities with guaranteed minimum benefit and equity securities. These derivatives include exchange-traded equity futures, equity index options contracts and equity variance swaps. The Company also employs reinsurance to manage these exposures.

Hedging Activities. MetLife uses derivative contracts primarily to hedge a wide range of risks including interest rate risk, foreign currency exchange rate risk, and equity market risk. Derivative hedges are designed to reduce risk on an economic basis while considering their impact on accounting results and GAAP and Statutory capital. The construction of the Company’s derivative hedge programs vary depending on the type of risk being hedged. Some hedge programs are asset or liability specific while others are portfolio hedges that reduce risk related to a group of liabilities or assets. The Company’s use of derivatives by major hedge programs is as follows:

 

   

Risks Related to Living Guarantee Benefits — The Company uses a wide range of derivative contracts to hedge the risk associated with variable annuity living guarantee benefits. These hedges include equity and interest rate futures, interest rate swaps, currency futures/forwards, equity indexed options and interest rate option contracts and equity variance swaps.

 

   

Minimum Interest Rate Guarantees — For certain liability contracts, the Company provides the contractholder a guaranteed minimum interest rate. These contracts include certain fixed annuities and other insurance liabilities. The Company purchases interest rate floors to reduce risk associated with these liability guarantees.

 

   

Reinvestment Risk in Long Duration Liability Contracts — Derivatives are used to hedge interest rate risk related to certain long duration liability contracts, such as deferred annuities. Hedges include zero coupon interest rate swaps and swaptions.

 

   

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk — The Company uses currency swaps, forwards and options to hedge foreign currency exchange rate risk. These hedges primarily swap foreign currency exchange rate denominated bonds, investments in foreign subsidiaries or equity market exposures to U.S. dollars.

 

   

General ALM Hedging Strategies — In the ordinary course of managing the Company’s asset/liability risks, the Company uses interest rate futures, interest rate swaps, interest rate caps, interest rate floors and inflation swaps. These hedges are designed to reduce interest rate risk or inflation risk related to the existing assets or liabilities or related to expected future cash flows.

 

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Risk Measurement: Sensitivity Analysis

The Company measures market risk related to its market sensitive assets and liabilities based on changes in interest rates, equity market prices and foreign currency exchange rates utilizing a sensitivity analysis. This analysis estimates the potential changes in estimated fair value based on a hypothetical 10% change (increase or decrease) in interest rates, equity market prices and foreign currency exchange rates. The Company believes that a 10% change (increase or decrease) in these market rates and prices is reasonably possible in the near-term. In performing the analysis summarized below, the Company used market rates at September 30, 2012. The sensitivity analysis separately calculates each of the Company’s market risk exposures (interest rate, equity market and foreign currency exchange rate) relating to its trading and non-trading assets and liabilities. The Company modeled the impact of changes in market rates and prices on the estimated fair values of its market sensitive assets and liabilities as follows:

 

   

the net present values of its interest rate sensitive exposures resulting from a 10% change (increase or decrease) in interest rates;

 

   

the U.S. dollar equivalent estimated fair values of the Company’s foreign currency exposures due to a 10% change (increase or decrease) in foreign currency exchange rates; and

 

   

the estimated fair value of its equity positions due to a 10% change (increase or decrease) in equity market prices.

The sensitivity analysis is an estimate and should not be viewed as predictive of the Company’s future financial performance. The Company cannot ensure that its actual losses in any particular period will not exceed the amounts indicated in the table below. Limitations related to this sensitivity analysis include:

 

   

the market risk information is limited by the assumptions and parameters established in creating the related sensitivity analysis, including the impact of prepayment rates on mortgage loans;

 

   

for the derivatives that qualify as hedges, the impact on reported earnings may be materially different from the change in market values;

 

   

the analysis excludes liabilities pursuant to insurance contracts and real estate holdings; and

 

   

the model assumes that the composition of assets and liabilities remains unchanged throughout the period.

Accordingly, the Company uses such models as tools and not as substitutes for the experience and judgment of its management. Based on its analysis of the impact of a 10% change (increase or decrease) in market rates and prices, MetLife has determined that such a change could have a material adverse effect on the estimated fair value of certain assets and liabilities from interest rate, foreign currency exchange rate and equity market exposures.

The table below illustrates the potential loss in estimated fair value for each market risk exposure of the Company’s market sensitive assets and liabilities at September 30, 2012:

 

     September 30, 2012  
     (In millions)  

Non-trading:

  

Interest rate risk

   $ 5,581  

Foreign currency exchange rate risk

   $ 5,873  

Equity market risk

   $ 116  

Trading:

  

Interest rate risk

   $ 8  

Foreign currency exchange rate risk

   $ 604  

 

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Sensitivity Analysis: Interest Rates. The table below provides additional detail regarding the potential loss in fair value of the Company’s trading and non-trading interest sensitive financial instruments at September 30, 2012 by type of asset or liability:

 

     September 30, 2012  
     Notional
Amount
     Estimated
Fair
Value (1)
    Assuming a
10% Increase
in the Yield
Curve
 
     (In millions)  

Assets:

       

Fixed maturity securities

      $ 378,005     $ (4,695

Equity securities

      $ 2,803         

Trading and other securities

      $ 15,995       (8

Mortgage loans:

       

Held-for-investment

      $ 58,346       (190

Held-for-sale

        1,286         
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Mortgage loans, net

      $ 59,632       (190

Policy loans

      $ 14,500       (115

Other limited partnership interests (2)

      $ 1,434         

Short-term investments

      $ 14,678         

Other invested assets:

       

Mortgage servicing rights

      $ 490       26  

Other

      $ 1,863         

Cash and cash equivalents

      $ 16,950         

Accrued investment income

      $ 4,716         

Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables

      $ 3,499       (249

Other assets

      $ 284       (12

Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts (3)

      $ 429       (16

Mortgage loan commitments

   $ 2,864      $ 5       (10

Commitments to fund bank credit facilities, bridge loans and private corporate bond investments

   $ 1,505      $ 43         
       

 

 

 

Total Assets

        $ (5,269
       

 

 

 

Liabilities: (4)

       

Policyholder account balances

      $ 160,480     $ 543  

Payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions

      $ 38,493         

Bank deposits

      $ 6,515         

Short-term debt

      $ 100         

Long-term debt

      $ 19,327       205  

Collateral financing arrangements

      $ 3,807         

Junior subordinated debt securities

      $ 3,870       88  

Other liabilities:

       

Trading liabilities

      $ 121       2  

Other

      $ 5,167         

Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts (3)

      $ 4,369       480  
       

 

 

 

Total Liabilities

        $ 1,318  
       

 

 

 

Derivative Instruments:

       

Interest rate swaps

   $ 98,609      $ 6,359     $ (1,128

Interest rate floors

   $ 23,366      $ 1,130       (70

Interest rate caps

   $ 49,547      $ 78       18  

Interest rate futures

   $ 12,469      $ (10     (77

Interest rate options

   $ 16,065      $ 848       (226

Interest rate forwards

   $ 770      $ 178       (50

Synthetic GICs

   $ 4,541      $          

Foreign currency swaps

   $ 20,223      $ (312     (2

Foreign currency forwards

   $ 10,598      $ (18     1  

Currency futures

   $ 289      $          

Currency options

   $ 2,851      $ (45       

Credit default swaps

   $ 13,326      $ 59         

Equity futures

   $ 7,367      $ 63         

Equity options

   $ 21,096      $ 2,835       (102

Variance swaps

   $ 20,056      $ (68     (2

Total rate of return swaps

   $ 2,073      $ (80       
       

 

 

 

Total Derivative Instruments

        $ (1,638
       

 

 

 

Net Change

        $ (5,589
       

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Separate account assets and liabilities which are interest rate sensitive are not included herein as any interest rate risk is borne by the holder of the separate account. Mortgage loans and long-term debt excludes $2.9 billion and $2.7 billion, respectively, related to CSEs. See Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about CSEs.

 

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(2)

Represents only those investments accounted for using the cost method.

 

(3)

Embedded derivatives are recognized in the consolidated balance sheet in the same caption as the host contract.

 

(4)

The table excludes $206.9 billion of liabilities pursuant to insurance contracts reported within future policy benefits and other policy-related balances. These liabilities would economically offset a significant portion of the net change in fair value of our financial instruments resulting from a 10% increase in the yield curve.

The measurement of sensitivity to interest rate risk has increased by $1.3 billion, or 30%, to $5.6 billion at September 30, 2012 from $4.3 billion at December 31, 2011. This change was primarily driven by net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts and the use of derivatives employed by the Company. This was partially offset by a decrease in interest rates across the long end of the swaps and U.S. Treasury curves.

Sensitivity Analysis: Foreign Currency Exchange Rates. The table below provides additional detail regarding the potential loss in estimated fair value of the Company’s portfolio due to a 10% change in foreign currency exchange rates at September 30, 2012 by type of asset or liability:

 

     September 30, 2012  
     Notional
Amount
     Estimated
Fair
Value (1)
    Assuming a
10% Increase
in the Foreign
Exchange
Rate
 
     (In millions)  

Assets:

       

Fixed maturity securities

      $ 378,005     $ (8,534

Equity securities

      $ 2,803       (120

Trading and other securities

      $ 15,995       (604

Mortgage loans:

       

Held-for-investment

      $ 58,346       (532

Held-for-sale

        1,286         
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Mortgage loans, net

      $ 59,632       (532

Policy loans

      $ 14,500       (205

Other limited partnership interests

      $ 1,434       (11

Short-term investments

      $ 14,678       (266

Other invested assets:

       

Mortgage servicing rights

      $ 490         

Other

      $ 1,863       (150

Cash and cash equivalents

      $ 16,950       (473

Accrued investment income

      $ 4,716       (80

Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables

      $ 3,499       (42

Other assets

      $ 284       (7
       

 

 

 

Total Assets

        $ (11,024
       

 

 

 

Liabilities: (2)

       

Policyholder account balances

      $ 160,480     $ 3,526  

Payable for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions

      $ 38,493       54  

Bank deposits

      $ 6,515         

Long-term debt

      $ 19,327       141  

Other liabilities

      $ 5,167       37  

Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts (3)

      $ 4,369       318  
       

 

 

 

Total Liabilities

        $ 4,076  
       

 

 

 

Derivative Instruments:

       

Interest rate swaps

   $ 98,609      $ 6,359     $ (38

Interest rate floors

   $ 23,366      $ 1,130         

Interest rate caps

   $ 49,547      $ 78         

Interest rate futures

   $ 12,469      $ (10     (2

Interest rate options

   $ 16,065      $ 848       (16

Interest rate forwards

   $ 770      $ 178         

Synthetic GICs

   $ 4,541      $          

Foreign currency swaps

   $ 20,223      $ (312     668  

Foreign currency forwards

   $ 10,598      $ (18     34  

Currency futures

   $ 289      $        (85

Currency options

   $ 2,851      $ (45     56  

Credit default swaps

   $ 13,326      $ 59         

Equity futures

   $ 7,367      $ 63         

Equity options

   $ 21,096      $ 2,835       (146

Variance swaps

   $ 20,056      $ (68       

Total rate of return swaps

   $ 2,073      $ (80       
       

 

 

 

Total Derivative Instruments

        $ 471  
       

 

 

 

Net Change

        $ (6,477
       

 

 

 

 

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(1)

Estimated fair value presented in the table represents the estimated fair value of all financial instruments within this financial statement caption, not necessarily those solely subject to foreign exchange risk. Separate account assets and liabilities which are foreign currency exchange rate sensitive are not included herein as any foreign currency exchange rate risk is borne by the holder of the separate account. Mortgage loans and long-term debt excludes $2.9 billion and $2.7 billion, respectively, related to CSEs. See Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about CSEs.

 

(2)

The table excludes $206.9 billion of liabilities pursuant to insurance contracts reported within future policy benefits and other policy-related balances. These liabilities would economically offset a significant portion of the net change in fair value of our financial instruments resulting from a 10% increase in the foreign currency exchange rates.

 

(3)

Embedded derivatives are recognized in the consolidated balance sheet in the same caption as the host contract.

The measurement of sensitivity to foreign currency exchange rate risk increased by $1.5 billion, or 30%, to $6.5 billion at September 30, 2012 from $5.0 billion at December 31, 2011. This change was due to an increase in exchange rate risk relating to fixed maturity securities (including trading and other securities), mortgage loans, cash and cash equivalents, accrued investment income and the use of derivatives employed by the Company. The Company has higher net exposures primarily due to the Australian dollar.

Sensitivity Analysis: Equity Market Prices. The table below provides additional detail regarding the potential loss in estimated fair value of the Company’s portfolio due to a 10% change in equity at September 30, 2012 by type of asset or liability:

 

     September 30, 2012  
     Notional
Amount
     Estimated
Fair
Value (1)
    Assuming a
10% Increase
in Equity
Prices
 
     (In millions)  

Assets:

       

Equity securities

      $ 2,803     $ 367  

Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts (2)

      $ 429       (18
       

 

 

 

Total Assets

        $ 349  
       

 

 

 

Liabilities:

       

Policyholder account balances

      $ 160,480     $   

Bank deposits

      $ 6,515         

Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts (2)

      $ 4,369       833  
       

 

 

 

Total Liabilities

        $ 833  
       

 

 

 

Derivative Instruments:

       

Interest rate swaps

   $ 98,609      $ 6,359     $   

Interest rate floors

   $ 23,366      $ 1,130         

Interest rate caps

   $ 49,547      $ 78         

Interest rate futures

   $ 12,469      $ (10       

Interest rate options

   $ 16,065      $ 848         

Interest rate forwards

   $ 770      $ 178         

Synthetic GICs

   $ 4,541      $          

Foreign currency swaps

   $ 20,223      $ (312       

Foreign currency forwards

   $ 10,598      $ (18       

Currency futures

   $ 289      $          

Currency options

   $ 2,851      $ (45       

Credit default swaps

   $ 13,326      $ 59         

Equity futures

   $ 7,367      $ 63       (679

Equity options

   $ 21,096      $ 2,835       (418

Variance swaps

   $ 20,056      $ (68     14  

Total rate of return swaps

   $ 2,073      $ (80     (215
       

 

 

 

Total Derivative Instruments

        $ (1,298
       

 

 

 

Net Change

        $ (116
       

 

 

 

 

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(1)

Estimated fair value presented in the table represents the estimated fair value of all financial instruments within this financial statement caption not necessarily those solely subject to equity price risk. Additionally, separate account assets and liabilities which are equity market sensitive are not included herein as any equity market risk is borne by the holder of the separate account.

 

(2)

Embedded derivatives are recognized in the consolidated balance sheet in the same caption as the host contract.

The measurement of sensitivity to equity price risk increased by $79 million to $116 million at September 30, 2012 from $37 million at December 31, 2011. This change was primarily due to the use of derivatives employed by the Company, partially offset by net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts.

 

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

Management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that these disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

There were no changes to the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f) during the quarter ended September 30, 2012 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Part II — Other Information

 

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

The following should be read in conjunction with (i) Part I, Item 3, of MetLife, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, as revised by MetLife, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on May 23, 2012 (as revised, the “2011 Annual Report”); (ii) Part II, Item 1, of MetLife, Inc.’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2012 and June 30, 2012, and (iii) Note 12 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I of this report.

Asbestos-Related Claims

Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (“MLIC”) is and has been a defendant in a large number of asbestos-related suits filed primarily in state courts. These suits principally allege that the plaintiff or plaintiffs suffered personal injury resulting from exposure to asbestos and seek both actual and punitive damages.

As reported in the 2011 Annual Report, MLIC received approximately 4,972 asbestos-related claims in 2011. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, MLIC received approximately 3,909 and 3,750 new asbestos-related claims, respectively. See Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2011 Annual Report for historical information concerning asbestos claims and MLIC’s increase in its recorded liability at December 31, 2002. The number of asbestos cases that may be brought, the aggregate amount of any liability that MLIC may incur, and the total amount paid in settlements in any given year are uncertain and may vary significantly from year to year.

MLIC reevaluates on a quarterly and annual basis its exposure from asbestos litigation, including studying its claims experience, reviewing external literature regarding asbestos claims experience in the U.S., assessing relevant trends impacting asbestos liability and considering numerous variables that can affect its asbestos liability exposure on an overall or per claim basis. These variables include bankruptcies of other companies

 

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involved in asbestos litigation, legislative and judicial developments, the number of pending claims involving serious disease, the number of new claims filed against it and other defendants and the jurisdictions in which claims are pending. Based upon its regular reevaluation of its exposure from asbestos litigation, MLIC has updated its liability analysis for asbestos-related claims through September 30, 2012.

Unclaimed Property Inquiries and Related Litigation

In April 2012, the Company reached agreements with representatives of the U.S. jurisdictions that were conducting audits of MetLife, Inc. and certain of its affiliates for compliance with unclaimed property laws, and with state insurance regulators directly involved in a multistate targeted market conduct examination relating to claim-payment practices and compliance with unclaimed property laws. The effectiveness of each agreement was conditioned upon the approval of a specified number of jurisdictions. In each case, the threshold for effectiveness has been reached. Pursuant to the agreements, the Company will, among other things, take specified action to identify liabilities under life insurance, annuity, and retained asset contracts, to adopt specified procedures for seeking to contact and pay owners of the identified liabilities, and, to the extent that it is unable to locate such owners, to escheat these amounts with interest at a specified rate to the appropriate states. Additionally, the Company has agreed to accelerate the final date of certain industrial life policies and to escheat unclaimed benefits of such policies. Pursuant to the agreement to resolve the market conduct examination, the Company made a $40 million multi-state examination payment to be allocated among the settling states. In the third quarter of 2011, the Company incurred a $117 million after tax charge to increase reserves in connection with the Company’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File and similar databases to identify potential life insurance claims that had not been presented to the Company. In the first quarter of 2012, the Company recorded a $52 million after tax charge for the multi-state examination payment and the expected acceleration of benefit payments to policyholders under the settlements. On September 20, 2012, the West Virginia Treasurer filed an action against MLIC in West Virginia state court (West Virginia ex rel. John D. Perdue v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, Circuit Court of Putnam County, Civil Action No. 12-C-295) alleging that the Company violated the West Virginia Uniform Unclaimed Property Act, seeking to compel compliance with the Act, and seeking payment of unclaimed property, interest, and penalties. At least one other jurisdiction is pursuing a similar market conduct examination concerning compliance with unclaimed property statutes. It is possible that other jurisdictions may pursue similar examinations, audits or lawsuits and that such actions may result in additional payments to beneficiaries, additional escheatment of funds deemed abandoned under state laws, administrative penalties, interest, and/or further changes to the Company’s procedures. The Company is not currently able to estimate these additional possible costs.

Total Asset Recovery Services, LLC on behalf of the State of Illinois v. MetLife, Inc., et. al. (Cir. Ct. Cook County, IL, filed January 24, 2011). Alleging that MetLife, Inc. and another company have violated the Illinois Uniform Disposition of Unclaimed Property Act by failing to escheat to Illinois benefits of 4,766 life insurance contracts, Total Asset Recovery Services, LLC (“the Relator”) has brought an action under the Illinois False Claims Whistleblower Reward and Protection Act seeking to recover damages on behalf of Illinois. MetLife, Inc. and MLIC have moved to dismiss the action. On September 6, 2012, the court granted the Relator’s unopposed motion to dismiss all of its claims.

City of Birmingham Retirement and Relief System v. MetLife, Inc., et. al. (N.D. Alabama, filed in state court on July 5, 2012 and removed to federal court on August 3, 2012). Seeking to represent a class of persons who purchased MetLife, Inc. common equity units in or traceable to a public offering in March 2011, the plaintiff filed an action alleging that MetLife, Inc., certain current and former directors and executive officers of MetLife, Inc., and various underwriters violated several provisions of the Securities Act of 1933 related to the filing of the registration statement by issuing, or causing MetLife, Inc. to issue, materially false and misleading statements and/or omissions concerning MetLife, Inc.’s potential liability for millions of dollars in insurance benefits that should have been paid to beneficiaries or escheated to the states. Plaintiff seeks unspecified compensatory damages and other relief. Defendants removed this action to federal court, and plaintiff has moved to remand the action to state court. The defendants intend to defend this action vigorously.

 

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Derivative Actions and Demands. Seeking to sue derivatively on behalf of MetLife, Inc., four shareholders have commenced separate actions against members of the MetLife, Inc. Board of Directors, alleging that they breached their fiduciary and other duties to the Company. The actions are Fishbaum v. Kandarian, et al. (Sup. Ct., New York County, filed January 27, 2012), Batchelder v. Burwell, et al. (Sup. Ct., New York County, filed March 6, 2012), Mallon v. Kandarian, et al. (S.D.N.Y., filed March 28, 2012), and Martino v. Kandarian, et al. (S.D.N.Y., filed April 19, 2012). The two federal court actions have been consolidated and have been stayed pending further order of the court. The two state court actions have been consolidated under the caption In re: MetLife Shareholder Derivative Action and an amended complaint has been filed. Plaintiffs in all four actions allege that the defendants failed to ensure that the Company complied with state unclaimed property laws and to ensure that the Company accurately reported its earnings. Plaintiffs allege that because of the defendants’ breaches of duty, MetLife, Inc. has incurred damage to its reputation and has suffered other unspecified damages. The defendants intend to defend these actions vigorously. A fifth shareholder, Western Pennsylvania Electrical Workers Pension Fund, has written to the MetLife, Inc. Board of Directors demanding that MetLife, Inc. take action against current and former Board members, executive officers, and MetLife, Inc.’s independent auditor, for similar alleged breaches of duty with respect to the Company’s compliance with unclaimed property laws and financial disclosures. The MetLife, Inc. Board of Directors has appointed a Special Committee to investigate these allegations. On September 24, 2012, counsel for the Special Committee apprised this shareholder’s counsel that the Board of Directors had reviewed the issues and rejected the demand.

Other U.S. Litigation

Merrill Haviland, et al. v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (E.D. Mich., removed to federal court on July 22, 2011). This lawsuit was filed by 45 retired General Motors (“GM”) employees against MLIC and the amended complaint includes claims for conversion, unjust enrichment, breach of contract, fraud, intentional infliction of emotional distress, fraudulent insurance acts, unfair trade practices, and Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) claims based upon GM’s 2009 reduction of the employees’ life insurance coverage under GM’s ERISA-governed plan. The complaint includes a count seeking class action status. MLIC is the insurer of GM’s group life insurance plan and administers claims under the plan. According to the complaint, MLIC had previously provided plaintiffs with a “written guarantee” that their life insurance benefits under the GM plan would not be reduced for the rest of their lives. On June 26, 2012, the district court granted MLIC’s motion to dismiss the complaint. Plaintiffs have appealed that decision to the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

McGuire v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (E.D. Mich., filed February 22, 2012). This lawsuit was filed by the fiduciary for the Union Carbide Employees’ Pension Plan and alleges that MLIC, which issued annuity contracts to fund some of the benefits the Plan provides, engaged in transactions that ERISA prohibits and violated duties under ERISA and federal common law by determining that no dividends were payable with respect to the contracts from and after 1999. On September 26, 2012, the court denied MLIC’s motion to dismiss the complaint. The Company is defending the action vigorously.

Summary

Putative or certified class action litigation and other litigation and claims and assessments against the Company, in addition to those discussed previously and those otherwise provided for in the Company’s consolidated financial statements, have arisen in the course of the Company’s business, including, but not limited to, in connection with its activities as an insurer, mortgage lending bank, employer, investor, investment advisor and taxpayer. Further, state insurance regulatory authorities and other federal and state authorities regularly make inquiries and conduct investigations concerning the Company’s compliance with applicable insurance and other laws and regulations.

It is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of all pending investigations and legal proceedings. In some of the matters referred to previously, very large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive and treble damages, are sought. Although in light of these considerations it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain

 

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cases could have a material effect upon the Company’s financial position, based on information currently known by the Company’s management, in its opinion, the outcomes of such pending investigations and legal proceedings are not likely to have such an effect. However, given the large and/or indeterminate amounts sought in certain of these matters and the inherent unpredictability of litigation, it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain matters could, from time to time, have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated net income or cash flows in particular quarterly or annual periods.

 

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

The following, together with the information under “Risk Factors” in Part II, Item 1A of MetLife, Inc.’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2012 and June 30, 2012, which is incorporated herein by reference, should be read in conjunction with, and supplements and amends, the factors that may affect the Company’s business or operations described under “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A, of the 2011 Annual Report.

Our Insurance, Brokerage and Banking Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation and in Supervisory and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth

Insurance Regulation — U.S. Our insurance operations are subject to a wide variety of insurance and other laws and regulations. See “Business — U.S. Regulation — Insurance Regulation” included in the 2011 Annual Report and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations – Industry Trends – Regulatory Developments.” State insurance laws regulate most aspects of our U.S. insurance businesses, and our U.S. insurance subsidiaries are regulated by the insurance regulators of the states in which they are domiciled and the states in which they are licensed.

State laws in the U.S. grant insurance regulatory and other state authorities broad administrative powers with respect to, among other things:

 

   

licensing companies and agents to transact business;

 

   

calculating the value of assets to determine compliance with statutory requirements;

 

   

mandating certain insurance benefits;

 

   

regulating certain premium rates;

 

   

reviewing and approving policy forms;

 

   

regulating unfair trade and claims practices, including through the imposition of restrictions on marketing and sales practices, distribution arrangements and payment of inducements, and identifying and paying to the states benefits and other property that is not claimed by the owners;

 

   

regulating advertising;

 

   

protecting privacy;

 

   

establishing statutory capital and reserve requirements and solvency standards;

 

   

fixing maximum interest rates on insurance policy loans and minimum rates for guaranteed crediting rates on life insurance policies and annuity contracts;

 

   

approving changes in control of insurance companies;

 

   

restricting the payment of dividends and other transactions between affiliates; and

 

   

regulating the types, amounts and valuation of investments.

 

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State insurance guaranty associations have the right to assess insurance companies doing business in their state for funds to help pay the obligations of insolvent insurance companies to policyholders and claimants. Because the amount and timing of an assessment is beyond our control, the liabilities that we have currently established for these potential liabilities may not be adequate. See “Business — U.S. Regulation — Insurance Regulation — Guaranty Associations and Similar Arrangements” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

State insurance regulators and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) regularly re-examine existing laws and regulations applicable to insurance companies and their products. Changes in these laws and regulations, or in interpretations thereof, that are made for the benefit of the consumer sometimes lead to additional expense for the insurer and, thus, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. In July 2012, our New York domestic insurers received, as part of an industry-wide inquiry, a request from the New York Department of Financial Services (the “Department of Financial Services”) to provide information regarding their use of affiliated captive reinsurers or off-shore entities to reinsure insurance risks. We responded to this request. The NAIC is also studying the use of captive reinsurers. Like many life insurance companies, we utilize captive reinsurers in order to comply with certain reserve requirements related to universal life and term life insurance policies. We also use captives to aggregate variable annuity risk under a single legal entity which allows us to consolidate hedging and other risk management programs. As a result, reserves and capital for this business get transferred to the captives, subject to appropriate collateral. The financing arrangements with the captive reinsurers support non-economic reserves, representing reserves required by regulation but above our estimate of needed economic reserves. If the Department of Financial Services or other state insurance regulators determine to restrict the use of such captive reinsurers for purposes of funding reserve requirements related to universal life and term life insurance policies, it could impair our ability to write such products or require us to increase prices on such products unless alternate reserve funding solutions are found.

U.S. Federal Regulation Affecting Insurance. Currently, the U.S. federal government does not directly regulate the business of insurance. However, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (“Dodd-Frank”) allows federal regulators to compel state insurance regulators to liquidate an insolvent insurer under some circumstances if the state regulators have not acted within a specific period. The Federal Reserve Board has also proposed that it be given authority to compel insurance companies to take prompt corrective action in certain circumstances if they are part of a large bank holding company or of a company that has been designated by the Financial Stability Oversight Council (“FSOC”) as a non-bank SIFI. Dodd-Frank also establishes the Federal Insurance Office within the Department of the Treasury, which has the authority to participate in the negotiations of international insurance agreements with foreign regulators for the U.S., as well as to collect information about the insurance industry and recommend prudential standards. While not having a general supervisory or regulatory authority over the business of insurance, the director of this office will perform various functions with respect to insurance, including serving as a non-voting member of the FSOC and making recommendations to the FSOC regarding insurers to be designated for more stringent regulation. The director is also required to submit a report to Congress regarding how to modernize and improve the system of insurance regulation in the United States, including by increasing national uniformity through either a federal charter or effective action by the states.

Federal legislation and administrative policies in several areas can significantly and adversely affect insurance companies. These areas include financial services regulation, securities regulation, derivatives regulation, mortgage regulation, pension regulation, health care regulation, privacy, tort reform legislation and taxation. In addition, various forms of direct and indirect federal regulation of insurance have been proposed from time to time, including proposals for the establishment of an optional federal charter for insurance companies. Other aspects of our insurance operations could also be affected by Dodd-Frank. For example, effective July 21, 2012, Dodd-Frank imposes prohibitions on Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”)-insured depository institutions (such as MetLife Bank) and their affiliates from engaging in proprietary trading or sponsoring or investing in hedge funds or private equity funds (commonly known as the Volcker Rule). If and when MetLife Bank’s FDIC insurance is terminated, MetLife, Inc. and its affiliates will not be subject to the bans on proprietary trading and fund activities under the Volcker Rule. However, because the Volcker Rule nevertheless imposes additional capital requirements and quantitative limits on such trading and activities by a non-bank SIFI, MetLife, Inc. and its affiliates could be subject to such requirements and limits were they to be designated

 

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non-bank SIFIs. Regulations defining and governing such requirements and limits on non-bank SIFIs have not been proposed. Commencing from the date of designation, a non-bank SIFI will have a two-year period, subject to further extension by the Federal Reserve Board, to conform to any such requirements and limits. Subject to safety and soundness determinations as part of rulemaking that could require additional capital requirements and quantitative limits, Dodd-Frank provides that the exemptions under the Volcker Rule also are available to exempt any additional capital requirements and quantitative limits on non-bank SIFIs. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — Regulatory Developments Affecting Investment Activities and Derivatives, including the Volcker Rule,” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — Regulatory Developments Relating to Non-Bank SIFIs and G-SIIs,” as well as “Business — U.S. Regulation — Dodd-Frank and Other Legislative and Regulatory Developments — Volcker Rule” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

Banking and Bank Holding Company Regulation. As a federally chartered national banking association, MetLife Bank is subject to a wide variety of banking laws, regulations and guidelines. Federal banking and consumer financial protection laws regulate most aspects of the business of MetLife Bank, but certain state laws may apply as well. MetLife Bank is principally regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”), and secondarily by the Federal Reserve and the FDIC.

Federal banking laws and regulations address various aspects of MetLife Bank’s business and operations with respect to, among other things:

 

   

chartering to carry on business as a bank;

 

   

the permissibility of certain activities;

 

   

maintaining minimum capital ratios;

 

   

capital management in relation to the bank’s assets;

 

   

dividend payments and repurchases of securities, including common stock;

 

   

safety and soundness standards;

 

   

loan loss and other related liabilities;

 

   

liquidity;

 

   

financial reporting and disclosure standards;

 

   

counterparty credit concentration;

 

   

restrictions on related party and affiliate transactions;

 

   

lending limits (and, in addition, Dodd-Frank includes the credit exposures arising from securities lending by MetLife Bank within lending limits otherwise applicable to loans);

 

   

payment of interest;

 

   

unfair or deceptive acts or practices;

 

   

mortgage servicing practices;

 

   

privacy; and

 

   

relationships with MetLife, Inc. in its capacity as a bank holding company and potentially with other investors in connection with a change in control of MetLife Bank.

 

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Federal banking regulators regularly re-examine existing laws and regulations applicable to banks and their products. Changes in these laws and regulations, or in interpretations thereof, are often made for the benefit of the consumer at the expense of the bank and, thus, could have a material adverse effect on the financial condition and results of operations of MetLife Bank.

Since 2008, MetLife, through its affiliate, MetLife Bank, has been engaged in the forward and reverse residential mortgage origination and servicing business. In January 2012, MetLife, Inc. announced it was exiting the business of originating forward residential mortgage loans and, in April 2012, announced that it was exiting the businesses of originating and servicing reverse residential mortgage loans and that it and MetLife Bank entered into a definitive agreement to sell MetLife Bank’s reverse mortgage servicing portfolio. In June 2012, the Company sold the majority of MetLife Bank’s reverse mortgage servicing rights and related assets and liabilities, with the remainder sold in September 2012 pursuant to the same sales agreement. Also, in the third quarter of 2012, we began exploring the sale of MetLife Bank’s forward mortgage servicing assets and operations and, therefore, began reporting this business as divested. On November 2, 2012, MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Bank entered into a definitive agreement to sell MetLife Bank’s forward mortgage servicing portfolio to JPMorganChase Bank, N.A. The transaction is subject to certain regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Upon entering into this agreement, MetLife Bank has committed to sell or has otherwise exited most of its operations. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding our progress toward deregistering as a bank holding company.

State and federal regulatory and law enforcement authorities have initiated various inquiries, investigations or examinations of alleged irregularities in the foreclosure practices of the residential mortgage servicing industry. Mortgage servicing practices have also been the subject of Congressional attention. Authorities have publicly stated that the scope of the investigations extends beyond foreclosure documentation practices to include mortgage loan origination, modification and loss mitigation practices. See “Risk Factors — The Resolution of Several Issues Affecting the Financial Services Industry Could Have a Negative Impact on Our Reported Results or on Our Relations with Current and Potential Customers” included in MetLife, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2012 (the “June 30, 2012 Form 10-Q”) and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Industry Trends – Mortgage and Foreclosure-Related Exposures.”

In addition, Dodd-Frank established the CFPB, which supervises and regulates institutions providing certain financial products and services to consumers. Although the consumer financial services to which this legislation applies exclude insurance business of the kind in which we engage, the CFPB has authority to regulate consumer services provided by MetLife Bank and non-insurance consumer services provided elsewhere throughout MetLife. See “Business — U.S. Regulation — Dodd-Frank and Other Legislative and Regulatory Developments — Consumer Protection Laws” included in the 2011 Annual Report. We cannot predict how regulation by the CFPB might affect our business.

In June 2012, the OCC, Federal Reserve Board and the FDIC published three notices of proposed rulemaking (the “Bank Capital NPRs”) that would revise and replace the agencies’ current capital rules with rules consistent with (i) the final rules for increased capital and liquidity requirements for bank holding companies, such as MetLife, Inc., published by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (the “Basel Committee”) in December 2010 (“Basel III”), as well as the applicable sections of Dodd-Frank, (ii) a series of revisions adopted by the Basel Committee to the market risk capital requirements for exposures in a banking organization’s trading book in 2005, 2009 and 2010 (collectively, “Basel II.5”), and (iii) the market risk capital requirements as initially published by the Basel Committee in June 2004 (“Basel II”). See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Industry Trends – Regulatory Developments.” It is possible that even more stringent capital and liquidity requirements could be imposed on us if, in the future, MetLife, Inc. is designated by the FSOC as a non-bank SIFI.

In December 2011, the Federal Reserve Board issued a notice of proposed rulemaking related to enhanced prudential standards required by Dodd-Frank (“Regulation YY”). Regulation YY would apply to bank holding companies with assets of $50 billion or more and non-bank SIFIs. Regulation YY would impose (i) enhanced risk-based capital requirements, (ii) leverage limits, (iii) liquidity requirements, (iv) single counterparty exposure limits, (v) governance requirements for risk management, (vi) stress test requirements, and (vii) special

 

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debt-to-equity limits for certain companies, and would establish a procedure for early remediation based on the failure to comply with these requirements. In October 2012, the Federal Reserve Board issued a final rule implementing the stress testing requirements that it had earlier proposed as part of Regulation YY. The rule will require bank holding companies with $50 billion or more of assets and non-bank SIFIs to undergo three stress tests each year: an annual supervisory stress test conducted by the Federal Reserve Board and two company-run stress tests (an annual test which coincides with the timing of the supervisory stress test, and a mid-cycle test). Companies will be required to take the results of the stress tests into consideration in their annual capital planning and resolution and recovery planning. The ability of MetLife Bank and MetLife, Inc., as a bank holding company, to pay dividends, repurchase common stock or other securities or engage in other transactions that could affect its capital or need for capital could be reduced by any additional capital requirements that might be imposed as a result of the enactment of Dodd-Frank, Regulation YY and/or the adoption of the Bank Capital NPRs, stress testing and other regulatory initiatives if MetLife, Inc. is unable to deregister as a bank holding company before the requirements become effective or if MetLife, Inc. is designated a non-bank SIFI in the future. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends,” as well as “Business — U.S. Regulation” and “Business — International Regulation” included in the 2011 Annual Report. The Basel Committee has also published rules requiring a capital surcharge for globally systemically important banks. If they are endorsed and adopted by the U.S. banking regulators, these rules will be phased in for U.S. banks beginning in 2016 and will become fully effective in 2019. These rules were not included in the Bank Capital NPRs.

The Federal Reserve’s capital plans rule requires all bank holding companies with assets of more than $50 billion, including MetLife, Inc., to submit annual capital plans which include proposed capital actions and projections of the company’s capital levels under baseline and stress scenarios over a nine-quarter period. The Federal Reserve will approve or object to a company’s proposed capital distributions, such as dividends and stock repurchases, based on the results of those capital plans and the Federal Reserve’s assessment of the robustness of the company’s capital planning processes. In addition, in recent years, the Federal Reserve has conducted the Comprehensive Capital Analysis and Review (“CCAR”), an assessment of the internal capital planning processes, capital adequacy and proposed capital distributions of large bank holding companies, including MetLife, Inc. Capital planning requirements could have the effect, in practice, of increasing the amounts of capital held by companies subject to the requirements, including MetLife, which could affect their competitive position. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — Regulatory Developments Applicable to Bank Holding Companies” and Note 14 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information on the capital plan we submitted to the Federal Reserve and “— Our Ability to Pay Dividends and Repurchase Common Stock is Subject to Regulatory Restrictions and to Restrictions Under the Terms of Certain of Our Securities” for additional information on dividend restrictions.

Under Dodd-Frank, all bank holding companies that have elected to be treated as financial holding companies, such as MetLife, Inc., are required to be “well capitalized” and “well managed” as defined by the Federal Reserve, on a consolidated basis, and not just at their depository institution(s), a higher standard than was applicable to financial holding companies before Dodd-Frank. If MetLife, Inc. or MetLife Bank is unable to meet these standards, we could be subject to activity restrictions, including restrictions on mergers and acquisitions, ultimately be required to divest certain operations and be restricted in our ability to pay dividends, repurchase common stock or other securities, or engage in transactions that could affect our capital or need for capital. See “Business — U.S. Regulation — Dodd-Frank and Other Legislative and Regulatory Developments” included in the 2011 Annual Report and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — Regulatory Developments Applicable to Bank Holding Companies.”

In December 2011, MetLife Bank and MetLife, Inc. entered into a definitive agreement to sell most of the depository business of MetLife Bank to GE Capital Bank (formerly known as GE Capital Financial Inc.). In September 2012, this agreement was amended. Under the new structure, MetLife Bank’s depository business would be assumed by GE Capital Retail Bank, rather than by GE Capital Bank. The key terms of the agreement,

 

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whereby a GE Capital affiliate will acquire approximately $7 billion in MetLife Bank deposits, including certificates of deposit and money market accounts, remain unchanged. The transaction, as amended, will now be subject to approval by the OCC, the primary regulator of GE Capital Bank, and other customary closing conditions. The approval of the FDIC will no longer be required for the transaction. Upon completion of the sale, MetLife Bank would take the remaining administrative steps with the FDIC to terminate its deposit insurance and MetLife, Inc. would deregister as a bank holding company. Upon completion of the foregoing, MetLife, Inc. will no longer be regulated as a bank holding company or subject to enhanced supervision and prudential standards as a bank holding company with assets of $50 billion or more. However, if, in the future, the FSOC designates MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI, we would once again be subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve and enhanced supervision and prudential standards, such as those in the Federal Reserve’s proposed Regulation YY.

In April 2012, the FSOC adopted final rules setting forth the process it will follow and the criteria it will use to assess whether a non-bank financial company should be subject to enhanced supervision by the Federal Reserve as a non-bank SIFI. The FSOC will follow a three-stage process. In Stage 1, a set of uniform quantitative metrics will be applied to a broad group of non-bank financial companies in order to identify non-bank financial companies for further evaluation. If a non-bank financial company meets the total consolidated assets threshold and at least one of the other five quantitative thresholds used in the first stage, the FSOC will continue with two stages of further analysis using additional sources of data and qualitative and quantitative factors. MetLife, Inc. is currently a bank holding company and, as a result, it is not subject to designation as a non-bank SIFI. However, if MetLife, Inc. succeeds in deregistering as a bank holding company, it could be considered for designation as a non-bank SIFI. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — Regulatory Developments Relating to Non-Bank SIFIs and G-SIIs,” as well as “Business — U.S. Regulation — Financial Holding Company Regulation” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

The FDIC has the right to assess FDIC-insured banks for funds to help pay the obligations of insolvent banks to depositors. Because the amount and timing of an assessment is beyond our control, the liabilities that we have currently established for these potential liabilities may not be adequate. In addition, Dodd-Frank will result in increased assessments for banks with assets of $10 billion or more, which includes MetLife Bank. In addition, large bank holding companies and non-bank SIFIs can be assessed under Dodd-Frank for any uncovered costs arising in connection with the resolution of a systemically important financial company and, in July 2012, assessments to cover the expenses of the Office of Financial Research, an agency established by Dodd-Frank to improve the quality of financial data available to policymakers and facilitate more robust and sophisticated analysis of the financial system, were implemented. See “Risk Factors — Dodd-Frank Provides for the Resolution or Liquidation of Certain Types of Financial Institutions, Including Bank Holding Companies Like MetLife, Inc” included in the June 30, 2012 Form 10-Q.

Regulation of Brokers and Dealers. Dodd-Frank also authorizes the SEC to establish a standard of conduct applicable to brokers and dealers when providing personalized investment advice to retail and other customers. This standard of conduct would be to act in the best interest of the customer without regard to the financial or other interest of the broker or dealer providing the advice. See “Business — U.S. Regulation — Securities, Broker-Dealer and Investment Adviser Regulation” and “Risk Factors — Changes in U.S. Federal and State Securities Laws and Regulations, and State Insurance Regulations Regarding Suitability of Annuity Product Sales, May Affect Our Operations and Our Profitability” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

International Regulation. Our international insurance operations are principally regulated by insurance regulatory authorities in the jurisdictions in which they are located or operate. See “Business — International Regulation” included in the 2011 Annual Report, and “Risk Factors — Our International Operations Face Political, Legal, Operational and Other Risks, Including Exposure to Local and Regional Economic Conditions, That Could Negatively Affect Those Operations or Our Profitability” included in the June 30, 2012 Form 10-Q. A significant portion of our revenues is generated through operations in foreign jurisdictions, including many countries in early stages of economic and political development. Our international operations may be materially adversely affected by the actions and decisions of foreign authorities and regulators, such as through nationalization or expropriation of assets, the imposition of limits on foreign ownership of local companies,

 

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changes in laws (including tax laws and regulations), their application or interpretation, political instability, dividend limitations, price controls, changes in applicable currency, currency exchange controls or other restrictions that prevent us from transferring funds from these operations out of the countries in which they operate or converting local currencies we hold to U.S. dollars or other currencies. This may also impact many of our customers and independent sales intermediaries. Changes in the regulations that affect their operations also may affect our business relationships with them and their ability to purchase or distribute our products. Accordingly, these changes and actions may negatively affect our business in these jurisdictions.

We are also subject to the evolving Solvency II insurance regulatory directive for our insurance business throughout the European Economic Area. As requirements are finalized by the regulators, capital requirements might be impacted in a number of jurisdictions. In addition, our legal entity structure throughout Europe may impact our capital requirements, risk management infrastructure and reporting by country.

As part of the global initiative to identify global systemically important financial institutions, in May 2012, the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (“IAIS”) published a proposed assessment methodology for designating G-SIIs. The proposed methodology is intended to identify those insurers whose distress or disorderly failure, because of their size, complexity and interconnectedness, would cause significant disruption to the global financial system and economic activity. The proposed methodology has three steps: (i) data collection; (ii) assessment using a quantitative indicator-based assessment (addressing five categories: size, extent of global activity, degree of interconnectedness within the financial system, amount of non-traditional and non-insurance activities and substitutability) and a more qualitative business segment assessment; and (iii) supervisory judgment and validation process, including quantitative and qualitative assessments. Based on information obtained from the IAIS, the Financial Stability Board, an international entity established to coordinate, develop and promote effective regulatory, supervisory and other financial sector policies in the interest of financial stability, will make final recommendations in consultation with national supervisory authorities. Comments on the proposal were submitted July 1, 2012 and, on September 21, 2012, the IAIS published a report proposing the resolution of issues raised during the comment period. The IAIS expects to publish the first list of G-SIIs in the first half of 2013, with annual updates thereafter, enabling insurers to move on and off the list, in order to incentivize insurers to reduce their systemic importance. Any insurers identified as G-SIIs would be subject to additional policy measures. These policy measures were outlined in an October 2012 IAIS consultation paper (with comments due in December 2012) and the IAIS has stated that it intends to finalize them at the same time as the first group of G-SIIs is identified. The proposed policy measures, which would need to be implemented by legislation or regulation in relevant jurisdictions, include higher capital requirements (both for non-traditional and non-insurance activities and for G-SIIs overall), enhanced supervision (including more detailed and frequent reporting, removal of barriers to orderly resolution of the G-SII and reduction of the G-SII’s systemic risk over time), as well as additional measures to improve the degree of self-sufficiency of a G-SII’s different business segments (including separate legal structures for traditional insurance and non-traditional or non-insurance activities, and restrictions on intercompany subsidies). If MetLife, Inc. were identified as a G-SII, its competitive position relative to other life insurers that were not so designated could be adversely affected. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Industry Trends – Regulatory Developments – Regulatory Developments Relating to Non-Bank SIFIs and G-SIIs.”

We expect the scope and extent of regulation outside of the U.S., as well as regulatory oversight, generally to continue to increase. The authority of our international operations to conduct business is subject to licensing requirements, permits and approvals, and these authorizations are subject to modification and revocation. The regulatory environment in the countries in which we operate and changes in laws could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. See “Risk Factors — Our International Operations Face Political, Legal, Operational and Other Risks, Including Exposure to Local and Regional Economic Conditions, That Could Negatively Affect Those Operations or Our Profitability” included in the June 30, 2012 Form 10-Q, as well as “Business — International Regulation” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

Summary. From time to time, regulators raise issues during examinations or audits of MetLife, Inc.’s regulated subsidiaries that could, if determined adversely, have a material impact on us. We cannot predict whether or

 

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when regulatory actions may be taken that could adversely affect our operations. In addition, the interpretations of regulations by regulators may change and statutes may be enacted with retroactive impact, particularly in areas such as accounting or statutory reserve requirements. We are also subject to other regulations and may in the future become subject to additional regulations. See “Business — U.S. Regulation” and “Business — International Regulation” included in the 2011 Annual Report.

Compliance with applicable laws and regulations is time consuming and personnel-intensive, and changes in these laws and regulations may materially increase our direct and indirect compliance and other expenses of doing business, thus having a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Changes in Market Interest Rates May Significantly Affect Our Profitability

Some of our products, principally traditional whole life insurance, fixed annuities and guaranteed interest contracts, expose us to the risk that changes in interest rates will reduce our investment margin or “spread,” or the difference between the amounts that we are required to pay under the contracts in our general account and the rate of return we are able to earn on general account investments intended to support obligations under the contracts. Our spread is a key component of our net income.

As interest rates decrease or remain at low levels, we may be forced to reinvest proceeds from investments that have matured or have been prepaid or sold at lower yields, reducing our investment margin. Moreover, borrowers may prepay or redeem the fixed income securities, commercial or agricultural mortgage loans and mortgage-backed securities in our investment portfolio with greater frequency in order to borrow at lower market rates, which exacerbates this risk. Lowering interest crediting rates can help offset decreases in investment margins on some products. However, our ability to lower these rates could be limited by competition or contractually guaranteed minimum rates and may not match the timing or magnitude of changes in asset yields. As a result, our spread could decrease or potentially become negative. Our expectation for future spreads is an important component in the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”) and value of business acquired (“VOBA”), and significantly lower spreads may cause us to accelerate amortization, thereby reducing net income in the affected reporting period. In addition, during periods of declining interest rates, life insurance and annuity products may be relatively more attractive investments to consumers, resulting in increased premium payments on products with flexible premium features, repayment of policy loans and increased persistency, or a higher percentage of insurance policies remaining in force from year to year, during a period when our new investments carry lower returns. A decline in market interest rates could also reduce our return on investments that do not support particular policy obligations. During periods of sustained lower interest rates, policy liabilities may not be sufficient to meet future policy obligations and may need to be strengthened. Accordingly, declining and sustained lower interest rates may materially affect our results of operations, financial position and cash flows and significantly reduce our profitability.

In September 2012, the Federal Reserve Board announced that it anticipates that low interest rates are likely to be warranted at least through mid 2015, in order to improve the pace of recovery from stressed economic conditions. It also announced that it will expand its holdings of longer-term securities with open-ended purchases of $40 billion each month of agency mortgage-backed securities. Finally, it reiterated its plan to continue “Operation Twist” through the end of 2012. This program, announced in September 2011 by the Federal Open Market Committee, involves the purchase of U.S. Treasury securities with remaining maturities of six to 30 years and the sale of, over the same period, an equal par value of U.S. Treasury securities with remaining maturities of approximately three years or less. By reducing the supply of longer-term securities in the market, both of these programs are intended to put downward pressure on longer-term interest rates relative to levels that would otherwise prevail. The reduction in longer-term interest rates, in turn, is intended to contribute to a broad easing of financial market conditions that could provide additional stimulus to support the economic recovery.

As a global insurance company, we are also affected by the monetary policy of central banks around the world. While the major central banks are not lowering interest rates at the same pace as in prior quarters, the

 

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Federal Reserve Board, European Central Bank, Bank of England and Bank of Japan have all increased their use of “non-traditional” means of monetary policy via their asset purchase programs. We cannot predict with certainty the effect of these asset purchase programs on interest rates or the impact on the pricing levels of risk-bearing investments at this time. See “Risk Factors — Governmental and Regulatory Actions for the Purpose of Stabilizing and Revitalizing the Financial Markets and Protecting Investors and Consumers May Not Achieve the Intended Effect or Could Adversely Affect Our Competitive Position” included in the 2011 Annual Report and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Investments — Current Environment.” For a discussion of the impact of the low interest environment on us, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Financial and Economic Environment — Impact of a Sustained Low Interest Rate Environment” and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Financial and Economic Environment — Mitigating Actions.”

Increases in market interest rates could also negatively affect our profitability. In periods of rapidly increasing interest rates, we may not be able to replace, in a timely manner, the investments in our general account with higher yielding investments needed to fund the higher crediting rates necessary to keep interest sensitive products competitive. We, therefore, may have to accept a lower spread and, thus, lower profitability or face a decline in sales and greater loss of existing contracts and related assets. In addition, policy loans, surrenders and withdrawals may tend to increase as policyholders seek investments with higher perceived returns as interest rates rise. This process may result in cash outflows requiring that we sell investments at a time when the prices of those investments are adversely affected by the increase in market interest rates, which may result in realized investment losses. Unanticipated withdrawals and terminations may cause us to accelerate the amortization of DAC and VOBA, which reduces net income and may also cause us to accelerate negative VOBA, which increases net income. An increase in market interest rates could also have a material adverse effect on the value of our investment portfolio, for example, by decreasing the estimated fair values of the fixed income securities that comprise a substantial portion of our investment portfolio. Finally, an increase in interest rates could result in decreased fee income associated with a decline in the value of variable annuity account balances invested in fixed income funds.

Our Ability to Pay Dividends and Repurchase Common Stock is Subject to Regulatory Restrictions and to Restrictions Under the Terms of Certain of Our Securities

The declaration and payment of dividends is subject to the discretion of our board of directors, and will depend on our financial condition, results of operations, cash requirements, future prospects, regulatory restrictions on the payment of dividends and our other insurance subsidiaries and other factors deemed relevant by the board. There is no requirement or assurance that we will declare and pay any dividends. In addition, the payment of dividends on our common stock, and our ability to repurchase our common stock, are subject to restrictions arising out of our regulation by the Federal Reserve. They are also subject to restrictions under the terms of our preferred stock and junior subordinated debentures in situations where we may be experiencing financial stress, as described below. For purposes of this discussion, “junior subordinated debentures” are deemed to include MetLife, Inc.’s Fixed-to-Floating Rate Exchangeable Surplus Trust Securities, which are exchangeable at the option of MetLife, Inc., or in the future upon the occurrence of certain events, for junior subordinated debentures, and which contain terms with the same substantive effects described in this discussion as the terms in MetLife’s junior subordinated debentures.

Regulatory Restrictions. We are subject to the Federal Reserve’s capital plans rule, which requires all bank holding companies with assets of more than $50 billion, including MetLife, Inc., to submit annual capital plans which include proposed capital actions and projections of the company’s capital levels under baseline and stress scenarios over a nine-quarter period. The Federal Reserve will approve or object to a company’s proposed capital distributions, such as dividends and stock repurchases, based on the results of those capital plans and the Federal Reserve’s assessment of the robustness of the company’s capital planning processes. In addition, in recent years, the Federal Reserve has conducted the CCAR, an assessment of the internal capital planning processes, capital adequacy and proposed capital distributions of large bank holding companies, including MetLife, Inc. The capital

 

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plan we submitted to the Federal Reserve in January 2012 included an anticipated repurchase of common stock and an anticipated increase to MetLife, Inc.’s annual dividend to its stockholders. The Federal Reserve objected to the capital plan in March of 2012; therefore, MetLife, Inc. is unable to repurchase its common stock or increase its aggregate annual dividend amount above $0.74 per share, or $0.8 billion based on the outstanding shares at September 30, 2012, until such time as we are no longer subject to the capital plans rule and supervision by the Federal Reserve, or we submit a capital plan that is approved by the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve, pursuant to MetLife’s request, has extended the time for MetLife to resubmit its capital plan until January 5, 2013. Unless we receive an extension, we may also need to submit a capital plan for 2013 if MetLife, Inc. is still a bank holding company on January 5, 2013. If MetLife, Inc. remains a bank holding company, or if it is designated a non-bank systemically important financial institution and is required to submit capital plans to the Federal Reserve in the future, there can be no assurance that the Federal Reserve will approve its future capital plans. In addition, Federal Reserve Board policy provides that a bank holding company should pay dividends only out of current operating earnings. If it remains a bank holding company, MetLife, Inc. may not be able to pay dividends if it does not earn sufficient operating income.

“Dividend Stopper” Provisions in Our Preferred Stock and Junior Subordinated Debentures. Certain terms of our preferred stock and our junior subordinated debentures (sometimes referred to as “dividend stoppers”) may prevent us from purchasing our common stock or paying dividends on our common stock in certain circumstances. Moreover, MetLife, Inc. is a party to certain replacement capital covenants which limit its ability to eliminate these restrictions through the repayment, redemption or purchase or preferred stock or junior subordinated debentures by requiring MetLife, subject to certain limitations, to receive cash proceeds during a specified period from the sale of specified replacement securities prior to any such repayment, redemption or purchase. See Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2011 Annual Report for a description of such covenants in effect with respect to junior subordinated debentures. Under our preferred stock and junior subordinated debentures, if we have not paid the full dividends on our preferred stock for a dividend period (i.e., the period from and including a preferred stock dividend payment date to but excluding the next preferred stock dividend payment date), we may not repurchase or pay dividends on our common stock for that period. If we have not paid in full the accrued interest through the most recent interest payment date on our junior subordinated debentures, we may not repurchase or pay dividends on our common stock or other capital stock (including the preferred stock), subject to certain exceptions.

Trigger Events for the Restrictions on the Payment of Dividends on Our Preferred Stock and Restrictions on the Payment of Interest on Our Junior Subordinated Debentures. If a Trigger Event (as defined below) applies on the declaration date of a preferred stock dividend, then we may not declare dividends on the preferred stock, together with aggregate dividends declared during the related dividend period on any other stock that ranks on a parity with the preferred stock, in an amount that exceeds the net proceeds MetLife, Inc. has received from issuances of common stock during the 90 days preceding the related dividend declaration date. If a Trigger Event applies on the day that is 30 days before an interest payment date on our junior subordinated debentures, we may not pay interest on the junior subordinated debentures except to the extent of the amount of net proceeds that MetLife, Inc. has received from the sale of shares of common stock and certain kinds of warrants to purchase common stock during the 180 days prior to the interest payment date and that MetLife, Inc. designated at or before the time of such sale as available to pay interest on the junior subordinated debentures, and we would have to make commercially reasonable efforts to sell shares of common stock to provide sufficient proceeds to enable us to pay all accrued and unpaid interest on the junior subordinated debentures. A “Trigger Event” would occur if:

 

  (i)

our Covered Insurance Subsidiaries’ (as defined below) risk-based capital ratio (calculated under the methodology prescribed by state insurance regulators) was less than 175% of the company action level for such subsidiaries, in the case of each Covered Insurance Subsidiary based on the most recent annual financial statements for the year ended prior to such dividend payment date or interest payment date for which such subsidiary has filed its annual statement with the applicable state insurance commissioners (annual statements for a year are generally required to be filed on or before March 1 of the following year);

 

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OR

 

  (ii)

(x) the Trailing Four Quarters Consolidated Net Income Amount (as defined below) for the period ending on the last day of the quarter that is two quarters prior to the most recently completed quarter is zero or a negative amount and (y) the Adjusted Shareholders’ Equity Amount (as defined below) as of the last day of the most recently completed quarter and as of the end of the quarter that is two quarters before the most recently completed quarter has declined by 10% or more as compared to the Adjusted Shareholders’ Equity Amount at the end of the benchmark quarter (the date that is ten quarters prior to the most recently completed quarter).

The restrictions will continue until MetLife, Inc. satisfies the two tests in clauses (i) and (ii) above for a dividend payment date or interest payment date and, in addition, in the case of a restriction arising under clause (ii) above MetLife, Inc.’s Adjusted Shareholders’ Equity Amount has increased, or has declined by less than 10%, in either case as compared to the Adjusted Shareholders’ Equity Amount at the end of the benchmark quarter for each dividend payment date or interest payment date as to which restrictions were imposed under clause (ii) above. For example, if MetLife, Inc. failed to satisfy the test in clause (ii) above for three consecutive preferred stock dividend payment dates, MetLife would be free of the limits on dividends that may be declared on the preferred shares on the fourth dividend payment date only if, as of the related dividend declaration date:

 

   

MetLife, Inc. satisfied the tests in each of clauses (i) and (ii) above for that fourth dividend payment date; and

 

   

the Adjusted Shareholders’ Equity Amount as of the last completed quarter for that dividend payment date had increased from, or was less than 10% below, its level at the end of the respective benchmark quarter for each of the prior three dividend payment dates for which dividends were restricted under clause (ii) above. In effect, the Adjusted Shareholders’ Equity Amount as of the most recently completed quarter for that dividend payment date would have to be greater than, or less than 10% below, its level as of the end of not only the tenth quarter, but also each of the eleventh, twelfth and thirteenth quarters, preceding the most recently completed quarter.

For purposes of these restrictions,

 

   

The term “Adjusted Shareholders’ Equity Amount” means, as of any quarter end and subject to certain adjustments, the shareholders’ equity of MetLife, Inc. as reflected on its consolidated GAAP balance sheet as of such quarter end minus accumulated other comprehensive income as reflected on such consolidated balance sheet.

 

   

The term “Covered Insurance Subsidiaries” means our largest U.S. life insurance subsidiaries (in terms of general account admitted assets) that collectively account for 80% or more of the general account admitted assets of all of our U.S. life insurance subsidiaries. For purposes of this definition, “life insurance subsidiaries” does not include life insurance companies that are subsidiaries of other life insurance companies.

 

   

The term “Trailing Four Quarters Consolidated Net Income Amount” means, for any fiscal quarter and subject to certain adjustments, the sum of the consolidated GAAP net income of MetLife, Inc. for the four fiscal quarters ending as of the last day of such fiscal quarter.

Dividends on Our Preferred Stock Are Subject to Declaration by Our Board of Directors. In addition to the provisions described above that prevent us from declaring and paying dividends on our preferred stock, dividends on our preferred stock are subject to declaration each quarter by our Board of Directors. If our Board of Directors does not declare dividends on the preferred stock for any quarterly dividend period, the “dividend stopper” provisions in our preferred stock would prevent us from repurchasing or paying dividends on our common stock for that period.

 

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Optional Deferral of Interest on the Junior Subordinated Debentures. We may also defer one or more payments of interest on our junior subordinated debentures for up to ten years at our option. If a Trigger Event occurs after an optional deferral period commences, the optional deferral is deemed suspended until such time as neither of the Trigger Event conditions applies for an interest payment date. During the first five years of an optional deferral period, we may pay deferred interest out of any source of funds. If interest on the junior subordinated debentures remains unpaid after five years of an optional deferral period, we may not pay interest on the junior subordinated debentures except (other than after the final maturity date or after an acceleration date) to the extent of the amount of net proceeds that MetLife, Inc. has received from the sale of shares of common stock and certain kinds of warrants to purchase common stock during the 180 days prior to the interest payment date, and we would have to make commercially reasonable efforts to sell shares of common stock to provide sufficient proceeds to enable us to pay all accrued and unpaid interest on the junior subordinated debentures. During any interest deferral period, the “dividend stopper” provisions in the junior subordinated debentures would prevent us from repurchasing or paying dividends on our common stock or any other capital stock (including the preferred stock).

Our Statutory Reserve Financings May Be Subject to Cost Increases and New Financings May Be Subject to Limited Market Capacity

To support statutory reserves for several products, including, but not limited to, our level premium term life and universal life with secondary guarantees and MLIC’s closed block, we currently utilize capital markets solutions for financing a portion of our statutory reserve requirements. While we have financing facilities in place for certain previously written business, certain of these facilities are subject to cost increases upon the occurrence of specified ratings downgrades of MetLife or are subject to periodic repricing. Any resulting cost increases could negatively impact our financial results.

Future capacity for these statutory reserve funding structures in the marketplace is not guaranteed. Currently, the use of captive reinsurers is being studied by the Department of Financial Services and the NAIC. See “— Our Insurance, Brokerage and Banking Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation in Supervisory and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth.” If the Department of Financial Services or other state insurance regulators determine to restrict the use of captive reinsurers for purposes of funding reserve requirements or capacity in the capital markets otherwise becomes unavailable for a prolonged period of time, hindering our ability to obtain funding for these new structures, our ability to write additional business in a cost effective manner may be impacted.

Litigation and Regulatory Investigations Are Increasingly Common in Our Businesses and May Result in Significant Financial Losses and/or Harm to Our Reputation

We face a significant risk of litigation and regulatory investigations and actions in the ordinary course of operating our businesses, including the risk of class action lawsuits. Our pending legal and regulatory actions include proceedings specific to us and others generally applicable to business practices in the industries in which we operate. In connection with our insurance operations, plaintiffs’ lawyers may bring or are bringing class actions and individual suits alleging, among other things, issues relating to sales or underwriting practices, claims payments and procedures, product design, disclosure, administration, denial or delay of benefits and breaches of fiduciary or other duties to customers. Plaintiffs in class action and other lawsuits against us may seek very large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive and treble damages. Modern pleading practice in the U.S. and other countries permits considerable variation in the assertion of money damages or other relief. This variability in pleadings, together with our actual experience in litigating or resolving through settlement numerous claims over an extended period of time, demonstrates to management that the monetary relief which may be specified in a lawsuit or claim bears little relevance to its merits or disposition value. See Note 12 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Due to the vagaries of litigation, the outcome of a litigation matter and the amount or range of potential loss at particular points in time may normally be difficult to ascertain. Uncertainties can include how fact finders will

 

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evaluate documentary evidence and the credibility and effectiveness of witness testimony, and how trial and appellate courts will apply the law in the context of the pleadings or evidence presented, whether by motion practice, or at trial or on appeal. Disposition valuations are also subject to the uncertainty of how opposing parties and their counsel will themselves view the relevant evidence and applicable law.

We establish liabilities for litigation and regulatory loss contingencies when it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Liabilities have been established for a number of matters noted in Note 12 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. It is possible that some of the matters could require us to pay damages or make other expenditures or establish accruals in amounts that could not be estimated at September 30, 2012.

Over the past several years, we have faced numerous claims, including class action lawsuits, alleging improper marketing or sales of individual life insurance policies, annuities, mutual funds or other products.

In addition, MLIC is and has been a defendant in a large number of lawsuits seeking both actual and punitive damages for personal injuries resulting from exposure to asbestos. These lawsuits principally have focused on allegations with respect to certain research, publication and other activities of one or more of MLIC’s employees during the period from the 1920’s through approximately the 1950’s and alleged that MLIC learned or should have learned of certain health risks posed by asbestos and, among other things, improperly publicized or failed to disclose those health risks. Additional litigation relating to these matters may be commenced in the future. The ability of MLIC to estimate its ultimate asbestos exposure is subject to considerable uncertainty, and the conditions impacting its liability can be dynamic and subject to change. The availability of reliable data is limited and it is difficult to predict the numerous variables that can affect liability estimates, including the number of future claims, the cost to resolve claims, the disease mix and severity of disease in pending and future claims, the impact of the number of new claims filed in a particular jurisdiction and variations in the law in the jurisdictions in which claims are filed, the possible impact of tort reform efforts, the willingness of courts to allow plaintiffs to pursue claims against MLIC when exposure to asbestos took place after the dangers of asbestos exposure were well known, and the impact of any possible future adverse verdicts and their amounts. The number of asbestos cases that may be brought, the aggregate amount of any liability that MLIC may incur, and the total amount paid in settlements in any given year are uncertain and may vary significantly from year to year.

The ability to make estimates regarding ultimate asbestos exposure declines significantly as the estimates relate to years further in the future. In our judgment, there is a future point after which losses cease to be probable and reasonably estimable. It is reasonably possible that our total exposure to asbestos claims may be materially greater than the asbestos liability currently accrued and that future charges to income may be necessary. The potential future charges could be material in the particular quarterly or annual periods in which they are recorded.

We are also subject to various regulatory inquiries, such as information requests, subpoenas and books and record examinations, from state and federal regulators and other authorities. A substantial legal liability or a significant regulatory action against us could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Moreover, even if we ultimately prevail in the litigation, regulatory action or investigation, we could suffer significant reputational harm, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations, including our ability to attract new customers, retain our current customers and recruit and retain employees. Regulatory inquiries and litigation may cause volatility in the price of stocks of companies in our industry.

In April 2012, we reached agreements with representatives of the U.S. jurisdictions that were conducting audits of MetLife, Inc. and certain of its affiliates for compliance with unclaimed property laws, and with state insurance regulators directly involved in a multistate targeted market conduct examination relating to claim-payment practices and compliance with unclaimed property laws. The effectiveness of each agreement was conditioned upon the approval of a specified number of jurisdictions. In each case, the threshold for effectiveness has been reached. Pursuant to the agreements, we will, among other things, take specified action to identify

 

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liabilities under life insurance, annuity, and retained asset contracts, to adopt specified procedures for seeking to contact and pay owners of the identified liabilities, and, to the extent that we are unable to locate such owners, to escheat these amounts with interest at a specified rate to the appropriate states. Additionally, we have agreed to accelerate the final date of certain industrial life policies and to escheat unclaimed benefits of such policies. Pursuant to the agreement to resolve the market conduct examination, the Company made a $40 million multi-state examination payment to be allocated among the settling states. In the third quarter of 2011, we incurred a $117 million after tax charge to increase reserves in connection with our use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File and similar databases to identify potential life insurance claims that had not been presented to us. In the first quarter of 2012, we recorded a $52 million after tax charge for the multi-state examination payment and the expected acceleration of benefit payments to policyholders under the settlements. On September 20, 2012, the West Virginia Treasurer filed an action against MLIC in West Virginia state court (West Virginia ex rel, John D. Perdue v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, Circuit Court of Putnam Country, Civil Action No. 12-C-295) alleging that the Company violated the West Virginia Uniform Unclaimed Property Act, seeking to compel compliance with the Act, and seeking payment of unclaimed property, interest and penalties. At least one other jurisdiction is pursuing a similar market conduct examination concerning compliance with unclaimed property statutes. It is possible that other jurisdictions may pursue similar examinations, audits or lawsuits and that such actions may result in additional payments to beneficiaries, additional escheatment of funds deemed abandoned under state laws, administrative penalties, interest, and/or further changes to our procedures. See Note 12 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding unclaimed property inquiries and related litigation.

We cannot give assurance that current claims, litigation, unasserted claims probable of assertion, investigations and other proceedings against us will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. It is also possible that related or unrelated claims, litigation, unasserted claims probable of assertion, investigations and proceedings may be commenced in the future, and we could become subject to further investigations and have lawsuits filed or enforcement actions initiated against us. The number of countries in which we currently operate has greatly expanded as a result of the acquisition of ALICO and, consequently, we may be subject to additional investigations and lawsuits in such jurisdictions. Increased regulatory scrutiny and any resulting investigations or proceedings in any of the countries where we operate could result in new legal actions and precedents and industry-wide regulations that could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

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Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Purchases of common stock made by or on behalf of MetLife, Inc. or its affiliates during the quarter ended September 30, 2012 are set forth below:

 

Period

  (a) Total Number
of Shares
Purchased (1)
    (b) Average Price
Paid per Share
    (c) Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as Part
of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
    (d) Maximum Number
(or Approximate

Dollar Value) of
Shares that May Yet
Be Purchased Under the
Plans or Programs (2)
 

July 1 — July 31, 2012

    362     $ 30.85            $ 1,260,735,127  

August 1 — August 31, 2012

         $             $ 1,260,735,127  

September 1 — September 30, 2012

    6,540     $ 34.98            $ 1,260,735,127  

 

 

(1)

During the periods July 1 through July 31, 2012 and September 1 through September 30, 2012, separate account and other affiliates of MetLife, Inc. purchased 362 shares and 6,540 shares, respectively, of common stock on the open market in nondiscretionary transactions to rebalance index funds. Except as disclosed above, there were no shares of common stock which were repurchased by the Company.

 

(2)

At September 30, 2012, MetLife, Inc. had $1.3 billion remaining under its common stock repurchase program authorizations. In April 2008, MetLife, Inc.’s Board of Directors authorized an additional $1.0 billion common stock repurchase program, which will begin after the completion of the January 2008 $1.0 billion common stock repurchase program, of which $261 million remained outstanding at September 30, 2012. Under these authorizations, MetLife, Inc. may purchase its common stock from the MetLife Policyholder Trust, in the open market (including pursuant to the terms of a pre-set trading plan meeting the requirements of Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) and in privately negotiated transactions. Any future common stock repurchases will be dependent upon several factors, including the Company’s capital position, its liquidity, its financial strength and credit ratings, general market conditions and the market price of MetLife, Inc.’s common stock compared to management’s assessment of the stock’s underlying value and applicable regulatory approvals, as well as other legal and accounting factors. See “Risk Factors — Our Ability to Pay Dividends and Repurchase Common Stock is Subject to Regulatory Restrictions and to Restrictions Under the Terms of Certain of Our Securities.”

 

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Item 6.

Exhibits

(Note Regarding Reliance on Statements in Our Contracts: In reviewing the agreements included as exhibits to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, please remember that they are included to provide you with information regarding their terms and are not intended to provide any other factual or disclosure information about MetLife, Inc., its subsidiaries or affiliates, or the other parties to the agreements. The agreements contain representations and warranties by each of the parties to the applicable agreement. These representations and warranties have been made solely for the benefit of the other parties to the applicable agreement and (i) should not in all instances be treated as categorical statements of fact, but rather as a way of allocating the risk to one of the parties if those statements prove to be inaccurate; (ii) have been qualified by disclosures that were made to the other party in connection with the negotiation of the applicable agreement, which disclosures are not necessarily reflected in the agreement; (iii) may apply standards of materiality in a way that is different from what may be viewed as material to investors; and (iv) were made only as of the date of the applicable agreement or such other date or dates as may be specified in the agreement and are subject to more recent developments. Accordingly, these representations and warranties may not describe the actual state of affairs as of the date they were made or at any other time. Additional information about MetLife, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates may be found elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and MetLife, Inc.’s other public filings, which are available without charge through the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.)

 

Exhibit
No.

  

Description

    4.1   

Twenty-Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 13, 2012, between MetLife, Inc. and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to MetLife, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 13, 2012 (the “August 2012 Form 8-K”)).

    4.2   

Form of 4.125% Senior Note due August 13, 2042. (Included as Exhibit A to Exhibit 4.1 to the August 2012 Form 8-K).

  10.1   

Offer letter, dated July 23, 2012, between MetLife, Inc. and John C. R. Hele. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to MetLife, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 27, 2012).

  10.2   

Adjustment of certain compensation terms for Michel Khalaf, effective July 1, 2012.

  10.3   

Five-Year Credit Agreement, dated as of September 13, 2012, among MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Funding, Inc., as borrowers, and the other parties signatory thereto, amending and restating the Three-Year Credit Agreement, dated as of October 15, 2010, among MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Funding, Inc., as borrowers, and the other parties signatory thereto. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to MetLife, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 19, 2012 (the “September 2012 Form 8-K”)).

  10.4   

First Amendment, dated as of September 13, 2012, among MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Funding, Inc., as borrowers, and the other parties signatory thereto, to the Five-Year Credit Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2011, among MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Funding, Inc., as borrowers, and the other parties signatory thereto. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the September 2012 Form 8-K).

  31.1   

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

  31.2   

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

  32.1   

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

  32.2   

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

252


Table of Contents

Exhibit
No.

  

Description

101.INS   

XBRL Instance Document.

101.SCH   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

101.CAL   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

101.LAB   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

101.PRE   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

101.DEF   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

253


Table of Contents

Signatures

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

METLIFE, INC.

By:

 

/s/ Peter M. Carlson

 

Name:

 

 Peter M. Carlson

 

Title:

 

 Executive Vice President, Finance

   

 Operations and Chief Accounting Officer

   

 (Authorized Signatory and Principal

   

 Accounting Officer)

   

Date: November 7, 2012

 

254


Table of Contents

Exhibit Index

(Note Regarding Reliance on Statements in Our Contracts: In reviewing the agreements included as exhibits to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, please remember that they are included to provide you with information regarding their terms and are not intended to provide any other factual or disclosure information about MetLife, Inc., its subsidiaries or affiliates, or the other parties to the agreements. The agreements contain representations and warranties by each of the parties to the applicable agreement. These representations and warranties have been made solely for the benefit of the other parties to the applicable agreement and (i) should not in all instances be treated as categorical statements of fact, but rather as a way of allocating the risk to one of the parties if those statements prove to be inaccurate; (ii) have been qualified by disclosures that were made to the other party in connection with the negotiation of the applicable agreement, which disclosures are not necessarily reflected in the agreement; (iii) may apply standards of materiality in a way that is different from what may be viewed as material to investors; and (iv) were made only as of the date of the applicable agreement or such other date or dates as may be specified in the agreement and are subject to more recent developments. Accordingly, these representations and warranties may not describe the actual state of affairs as of the date they were made or at any other time. Additional information about MetLife, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates may be found elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and MetLife, Inc.’s other public filings, which are available without charge through the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.)

 

Exhibit
No.

  

Description

    4.1   

Twenty-Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 13, 2012, between MetLife, Inc. and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to MetLife, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 13, 2012 (the “August 2012 Form 8-K”)).

    4.2   

Form of 4.125% Senior Note due August 13, 2042. (Included as Exhibit A to Exhibit 4.1 to the August 2012 Form 8-K).

  10.1   

Offer letter, dated July 23, 2012, between MetLife, Inc. and John C. R. Hele. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to MetLife, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 27, 2012).

  10.2   

Adjustment of certain compensation terms for Michel Khalaf, effective July 1, 2012.

  10.3   

Five-Year Credit Agreement, dated as of September 13, 2012, among MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Funding, Inc., as borrowers, and the other parties signatory thereto, amending and restating the Three-Year Credit Agreement, dated as of October 15, 2010, among MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Funding, Inc., as borrowers, and the other parties signatory thereto. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to MetLife, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 19, 2012 (the “September 2012 Form 8-K”)).

  10.4   

First Amendment, dated as of September 13, 2012, among MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Funding, Inc., as borrowers, and the other parties signatory thereto, to the Five-Year Credit Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2011, among MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Funding, Inc., as borrowers, and the other parties signatory thereto. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the September 2012 Form 8-K).

  31.1   

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

  31.2   

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

  32.1   

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

  32.2   

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

E-1


Table of Contents

Exhibit
No.

  

Description

101.INS   

XBRL Instance Document.

101.SCH   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

101.CAL   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

101.LAB   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

101.PRE   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

101.DEF   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

E-2