Form 10-K
Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

 

[X]  

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF

THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2014

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 1-6541

LOEWS CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

              Delaware     13-2646102   

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

   

(I.R.S. Employer  

Identification No.)

667 Madison Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10065-8087

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

(212) 521-2000

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

                         Title of each class              Name of each exchange on which registered    
Loews Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share     New York Stock Exchange            

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

 

  Yes    

X

    No    

 

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.

 

  Yes    

 

    No    

X

 

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    

X

    No    

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

 

  Yes    

X

    No    

 

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [ X ].

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. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer         X         Accelerated filer                  Non-accelerated filer                 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    

X

 

The aggregate market value of voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter was approximately $14,173,000,000.

As of February 13, 2015, there were 373,176,361 shares of Loews common stock outstanding.

Documents Incorporated by Reference:

Portions of the Registrant’s definitive proxy statement intended to be filed by Registrant with the Commission prior to April 30, 2015 are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Report.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

LOEWS CORPORATION

INDEX TO ANNUAL REPORT ON

FORM 10-K FILED WITH THE

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

For the Year Ended December 31, 2014

 

 

Item   Page  
 No. PART I No.  
  1 Business

CNA Financial Corporation

  3   

Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc.

  9   

Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, LP

  12   

Loews Hotels Holding Corporation

  16   

Executive Officers of the Registrant

  17   

Available Information

  18   
  1A Risk Factors   18   
  1B Unresolved Staff Comments   41   
  2 Properties   41   
  3 Legal Proceedings   41   
  4 Mine Safety Disclosures   41   
PART II
  5

Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

  41   
  6 Selected Financial Data   44   
  7 Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations   45   
  7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk   92   
  8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data   96   
  9 Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure   174   
  9A Controls and Procedures   174   
  9B Other Information   174   
PART III
Certain information called for by Part III (Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14) has been omitted as Registrant intends to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the close of its fiscal year a definitive Proxy Statement pursuant to Regulation 14A.
PART IV
  15 Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules   175   

 

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PART I

Unless the context otherwise requires, references in this Report to “Loews Corporation,” “we,” “our,” “us” or like terms refer to the business of Loews Corporation excluding its subsidiaries.

Item 1. Business.

We are a holding company. Our subsidiaries are engaged in the following lines of business:

 

   

commercial property and casualty insurance (CNA Financial Corporation, a 90% owned subsidiary);

 

   

operation of offshore oil and gas drilling rigs (Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc., a 52.5% owned subsidiary);

 

   

transportation and storage of natural gas and natural gas liquids and gathering and processing of natural gas (Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, LP, a 53% owned subsidiary); and

 

   

operation of a chain of hotels (Loews Hotels Holding Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary).

On August 1, 2014, CNA Financial Corporation completed the sale of Continental Assurance Company (“CAC”), its life insurance subsidiary. On September 30, 2014, we sold HighMount Exploration & Production LLC (“HighMount”), our natural gas and oil exploration and production subsidiary. The results of these sold businesses are reflected as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Financial Statements as further discussed in Notes 2 and 20 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included under Item 8.

Please read information relating to our business segments from which we derive revenue and income contained in Note 21 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included under Item 8.

CNA FINANCIAL CORPORATION

CNA Financial Corporation (together with its subsidiaries, “CNA”) was incorporated in 1967 and is an insurance holding company. CNA’s property and casualty and remaining life & group insurance operations are primarily conducted by Continental Casualty Company (“CCC”), incorporated in 1897, and The Continental Insurance Company (“CIC”), organized in 1853, and certain other affiliates. CIC became a subsidiary of CNA in 1995 as a result of the acquisition of The Continental Corporation (“Continental”). CNA accounted for 67.7%, 68.0% and 66.5% of our consolidated total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

CNA’s insurance products primarily include commercial property and casualty coverages, including surety. CNA’s services include risk management, information services, warranty and claims administration. CNA’s products and services are primarily marketed through independent agents, brokers and managing general underwriters to a wide variety of customers, including small, medium and large businesses, insurance companies, associations, professionals and other groups.

CNA’s property and casualty field structure consists of 49 underwriting locations across the United States. In addition, there are five centralized processing operations which handle policy processing, billing and collection activities and also act as call centers to optimize service. The claims structure consists of two regional claim centers designed to efficiently handle the high volume of low severity claims including property damage, liability and workers’ compensation medical only claims, and 16 principal claim offices handling the more complex claims. CNA also has a presence in Canada, Europe and Singapore consisting of 15 branch operations and access to business placed at Lloyd’s of London (“Lloyd’s”) through Hardy Underwriting Bermuda Limited (“Hardy”).

CNA’s core business, commercial property and casualty insurance operations, includes Specialty, Commercial and International. Other Non-Core business includes Life & Group Non-Core and Other.

 

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Specialty

Specialty includes the following business groups:

Management & Professional Liability:  Management & Professional Liability provides management and professional liability insurance and risk management services and other specialized property and casualty coverages. This group provides professional liability coverages to various professional firms, including architects, real estate agents, accounting firms, law firms and other professional firms. Management & Professional Liability also provides directors and officers (“D&O”), employment practices, fiduciary and fidelity coverages. Specific areas of focus include small and mid-size firms, public as well as privately held firms and not-for-profit organizations, where tailored products for these client segments are offered. Products within Management & Professional Liability are distributed through brokers, independent agents and managing general underwriters. Management & Professional Liability, through CNA HealthCare, also offers insurance products to serve the health care industry. Products include professional and general liability as well as associated standard property and casualty coverages, and are distributed on a national basis through brokers, independent agents and managing general underwriters. Key customer segments include aging services, allied medical facilities, life sciences, dentists, physicians, hospitals and nurses and other medical practitioners.

Surety:  Surety offers small, medium and large contract and commercial surety bonds. Surety provides surety and fidelity bonds in all 50 states through a network of independent agencies and brokers.

Warranty and Alternative Risks:  Warranty and Alternative Risks provides extended service contracts and related products that provide protection from the financial burden associated with mechanical breakdown and other related losses, primarily for vehicles and portable electronic communication devices.

Commercial

Commercial’s property products include standard and excess property, marine and boiler and machinery coverages. Casualty products include standard casualty insurance products such as workers’ compensation, general and product liability, commercial auto and umbrella coverages. Most insurance programs are provided on a guaranteed cost basis; however, CNA also offers specialized loss-sensitive insurance programs.

These property and casualty products are offered as part of CNA’s Middle Market, Small Business and Other Commercial insurance groups. Other Commercial also includes total risk management services relating to claim and information services to the large commercial insurance marketplace, through a wholly owned subsidiary, CNA ClaimPlus, Inc., a third party administrator.

International

International provides property and casualty insurance and specialty coverages in Canada, the United Kingdom and Continental Europe as well as globally through its operations at Lloyd’s.

International includes the following business groups:

Canada:  Canada provides standard commercial and specialty insurance products, primarily in the construction, life science, manufacturing, oil & gas and marine industries.

CNA Europe:  CNA Europe provides a diverse range of specialty products as well as commercial insurance products primarily in the health care, financial services, property, technology and marine industries throughout Europe.

 

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Hardy:  Hardy was acquired on July 2, 2012. Hardy operates through Lloyd’s Syndicate 382, underwriting primarily short-tail exposures in marine & aviation, non-marine property, property treaty reinsurance and specialty lines.

Life & Group Non-Core

Life & Group Non-Core primarily includes the results of CNA’s long term care businesses that are in run-off. CNA’s group long term care business, while considered non-core, currently continues to accept new employees in existing groups.

Other

Other primarily includes certain CNA corporate expenses, including interest on CNA corporate debt and the results of certain property and casualty business in run-off, including CNA Re and asbestos and environmental pollution (“A&EP”).

Direct Written Premiums by Geographic Concentration

Set forth below is the distribution of CNA’s direct written premiums by geographic concentration.

 

Year Ended December 31 2014     2013     2012            

 

 

California

  9.1   9.2   9.5%       

Texas

  8.1      8.0      7.4           

New York

  7.2      7.2      7.1           

Illinois

  6.7      5.9      6.5           

Florida

  5.7      5.9      5.8           

Pennsylvania

  3.7      3.7      3.4           

New Jersey

  3.4      3.7      3.5           

Canada

  2.6      3.1      3.0           

All other states, countries or political subdivisions

  53.5      53.3      53.8           

 

 
  100.0   100.0   100.0%       

 

 

Approximately 8.8%, 9.0% and 9.2% of CNA’s direct written premiums were derived from outside of the United States for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Property and Casualty Claim and Claim Adjustment Expenses

The following loss reserve development table illustrates the change over time of reserves established for property and casualty claim and claim adjustment expenses at the end of the preceding ten calendar years for CNA’s property and casualty insurance companies. The December 31, 2013 claim and claim adjustment expense reserves in the Consolidated Balance Sheet under Item 8 include amounts related to CNA’s life insurance subsidiary, therefore the reserves in this table as of that date do not agree to the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The first section shows the reserves as originally reported at the end of the stated year. The second section, reading down, shows the cumulative amounts paid as of the end of successive years with respect to the originally reported reserve liability. The third section, reading down, shows re-estimates of the originally recorded reserves as of the end of each successive year, which is the result of CNA’s property and casualty insurance subsidiaries’ expanded awareness of additional facts and circumstances that pertain to the unsettled claims. The last section compares the latest re-estimated reserves to the reserves originally established, and indicates whether the original reserves were adequate or inadequate to cover the estimated costs of unsettled claims.

 

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The loss reserve development table is cumulative and, therefore, ending balances should not be added since the amount at the end of each calendar year includes activity for both the current and prior years.

 

  Schedule of Loss Reserve Development  

 

 
Year Ended December 31 2004   2005    2006   2007   2008   2009   2010(a)    2011    2012(b)   2013   2014  

 

 
(In millions of dollars)                                            

Originally reported gross reserves for unpaid claim and claim adjustment expenses

  31,204      30,694         29,459      28,415      27,475      26,712        25,412       24,228      24,696       24,015          23,271    

Originally reported ceded recoverable

  13,682      10,438         8,078      6,945      6,213      5,524        6,060       4,967      5,075       4,911          4,344    

 

 

Originally reported net reserves for unpaid claim and claim adjustment expenses

  17,522      20,256         21,381      21,470      21,262      21,188        19,352       19,261      19,621       19,104          18,927    

 

 

Cumulative net paid as of:

One year later

  2,651      3,442         4,436      4,308      3,930      3,762        3,472       4,277      4,588       4,352            

Two years later

  4,963      7,022         7,676      7,127      6,746      6,174        6,504       7,459      7,788       -            

Three years later

  7,825      9,620         9,822      9,102      8,340      8,374        8,822       9,834           -            

Four years later

  9,914      11,289         11,312      10,121      9,863      10,038        10,548       -           -            

Five years later

  11,261      12,465         11,973      11,262      11,115      11,296             -           -            

Six years later

  12,226      12,917         12,858      12,252      12,114      -             -           -            

Seven years later

  12,551      13,680         13,670      13,101      -      -             -           -            

Eight years later

  13,245      14,409         14,412      -      -      -             -           -            

Nine years later

  13,916      15,092         -      -      -      -             -           -            

Ten years later

  14,561      -         -      -      -      -             -           -            

Net reserves re-estimated as of:

End of initial year

  17,522      20,256         21,381      21,470      21,262      21,188        19,352       19,261      19,621       19,104          18,927    

One year later

  18,513      20,588         21,601      21,463      21,021      20,643        18,923       19,081      19,506       19,065            

Two years later

  19,044      20,975         21,706      21,259      20,472      20,237        18,734       18,946      19,502       -            

Three years later

  19,631      21,408         21,609      20,752      20,014      20,012        18,514       18,908           -            

Four years later

  20,212      21,432         21,286      20,350      19,784      19,758        18,378       -           -            

Five years later

  20,301      21,326         20,982      20,155      19,597      19,563             -           -            

Six years later

  20,339      21,060         20,815      20,021      19,414      -             -           -            

Seven years later

  20,142      20,926         20,755      19,883      -      -             -           -            

Eight years later

  20,023      20,900         20,634      -      -      -             -           -            

Nine years later

  20,054      20,817         -      -      -      -             -           -            

Ten years later

  20,011      -         -      -      -      -             -           -            

 

 

Total net (deficiency) redundancy

  (2,489   (561)        747      1,587      1,848      1,625        974       353      119       39            

 

 

Reconciliation to gross re-estimated reserves:

Net reserves re-estimated

  20,011     20,817      20,634     19,883     19,414     19,563     18,378      18,908     19,502       19,065            

Re-estimated ceded recoverable

  14,411     11,720      9,398     7,987     6,942     6,284     6,773      5,519     5,200       4,596            

 

 

Total gross re-estimated reserves

  34,422     32,537      30,032     27,870     26,356     25,847     25,151      24,427     24,702       23,661            

 

 

Total gross (deficiency) redundancy

  (3,218   (1,843)     (573 )   545     1,119     865     261      (199)     (6)      354            

 

 

Net (deficiency) redundancy related to:

Asbestos

  (123   (113)     (112 )   (107 )   (79 )   -             -           -            

Environmental pollution

  (209   (159)     (159 )   (159 )   (76 )   -             -           -            

 

 

Total asbestos and environmental pollution

  (332   (272)     (271 )   (266 )   (155 )   -             -           -            

Core (Non-asbestos and environmental pollution)

  (2,157   (289)     1,018     1,853     2,003     1,625      974      353     119      39            

 

 

Total net (deficiency) redundancy

  (2,489   (561)     747     1,587     1,848      1,625      974      353     119      39            

 

 

 

(a)

Effective January 1, 2010, CNA ceded its net asbestos and environmental pollution claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserves under a retroactive reinsurance agreement as further discussed in Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

(b)

As a result of the Hardy acquisition, net reserves were increased by $291 million.

 

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In the third quarter of 2014, CNA commuted a workers’ compensation reinsurance pool which had the impact of $348 million of favorable gross loss reserve development and $324 million of unfavorable ceded loss reserve development.

Please read information relating to CNA’s property and casualty claim and claim adjustment expense reserves and reserve development set forth under Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”), and in Notes 1 and 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included under Item 8.

Investments

Please read Item 7, MD&A – Investments and Notes 1, 3, 4 and 5 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included under Item 8.

Other

Competition:  The property and casualty insurance industry is highly competitive both as to rate and service. CNA competes with a large number of stock and mutual insurance companies and other entities for both distributors and customers. Insurers compete on the basis of factors including products, price, services, ratings and financial strength. CNA must continuously allocate resources to refine and improve its insurance products and services.

There are approximately 2,700 individual companies that sell property and casualty insurance in the United States. Based on 2013 statutory net written premiums, CNA is the eighth largest commercial insurance writer and the 13th largest property and casualty insurance organization in the United States.

Regulation:  The insurance industry is subject to comprehensive and detailed regulation and supervision. Each domestic and foreign jurisdiction has established supervisory agencies with broad administrative powers relative to licensing insurers and agents, approving policy forms, establishing reserve requirements, prescribing the form and content of statutory financial reports and regulating capital adequacy and the type, quality and amount of investments permitted. Such regulatory powers also extend to premium rate regulations, which require that rates not be excessive, inadequate or unfairly discriminatory. In addition to regulation of dividends by insurance subsidiaries, intercompany transfers of assets may be subject to prior notice or approval by insurance regulators, depending on the size of such transfers and payments in relation to the financial position of the insurance subsidiaries making the transfer or payment.

Hardy is also supervised by the Council of Lloyd’s, which is the franchisor for all Lloyd’s operations. The Council of Lloyd’s has wide discretionary powers to regulate Lloyd’s underwriting, such as establishing the capital requirements for syndicate participation. In addition, the annual business plans of each syndicate are subject to the review and approval of the Lloyd’s Franchise Board, which is responsible for business planning and monitoring for all syndicates.

The European Union’s executive body, the European Commission, is implementing new capital adequacy and risk management regulations called Solvency II that would apply to CNA’s European operations. Additionally, the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (“IAIS”) continues to consider regulatory proposals addressing group supervision, capital requirements and enterprise risk management. The U.S. Federal Insurance Office and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners are working with other global regulators to define such proposals. It is not currently clear to what extent the IAIS activities will impact CNA as any final proposal would ultimately need to be legislated or regulated by each individual country or state.

Domestic insurers are also required by state insurance regulators to provide coverage to insureds who would not otherwise be considered eligible by the insurers. Each state dictates the types of insurance and the level of coverage that must be provided to such involuntary risks. CNA’s share of these involuntary risks is mandatory and generally a function of its respective share of the voluntary market by line of insurance in each state.

 

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Further, insurance companies are subject to state guaranty fund and other insurance-related assessments. Guaranty funds are governed by state insurance guaranty associations which levy assessments to meet the funding needs of insolvent insurer estates. Other insurance-related assessments are generally levied by state agencies to fund various organizations including disaster relief funds, rating bureaus, insurance departments, and workers’ compensation second injury funds, or by industry organizations that assist in the statistical analysis and ratemaking process.

Although the federal government does not currently directly regulate the business of insurance, federal legislative and regulatory initiatives can impact the insurance industry. These initiatives and legislation include proposals relating to potential federal oversight of certain insurers; terrorism and natural catastrophe exposures; cybersecurity risk management; federal financial services reforms; and certain tax reforms. The Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2015 was enacted on January 12, 2015. The reauthorization provides for a federal government backstop for insured terrorism risks for another six years with increases to the insurer co-payment and program trigger. The existence of the mitigating effects of such law is part of the analysis of CNA’s overall risk posture for terrorism and, accordingly, its risk positioning may change if such law were modified. CNA also continues to invest in the security network of its systems on an enterprise-wide basis, especially considering the implications of data and privacy breaches. This requires an investment of a significant amount of resources by CNA on an ongoing basis. Potential implications of possible cybersecurity legislation on such current investment, if any, are uncertain. The foregoing proposals, either separately or in the aggregate, create a regulatory and legal environment that may require changes in CNA’s business plan or significant investment of resources in order to operate in an effective and compliant manner.

Additionally, various legislative and regulatory efforts to reform the tort liability system have, and will continue to, impact CNA’s industry. Although there has been some tort reform with positive impact to the insurance industry, new causes of action and theories of damages continue to be proposed in state court actions or by federal or state legislatures that continue to expand liability for insurers and their policyholders.

Properties:  The Chicago location houses CNA’s principal executive offices. CNA’s subsidiaries own or lease office space in various cities throughout the United States and in other countries. The following table sets forth certain information with respect to CNA’s principal office locations:

 

Location

Size

(square feet)

Principal Usage            

 

333 S. Wabash Avenue
Chicago, Illinois

591,226      Principal executive offices of CNA

2405 Lucien Way
Maitland, Florida

107,405      Property and casualty insurance offices

125 S. Broad Street
New York, New York

67,201      Property and casualty insurance offices

101 S. Reid Street
Sioux Falls, South Dakota

61,308      Property and casualty insurance offices

4150 N. Drinkwater Boulevard
Scottsdale, Arizona

56,281      Property and casualty insurance offices

1 Meridian Boulevard
Wyomissing, Pennsylvania

52,517      Property and casualty insurance offices

10375 Park Meadows Drive
Littleton, Colorado

41,829      Property and casualty insurance offices

700 N. Pearl Street
Dallas, Texas

36,588      Property and casualty insurance offices

1249 S. River Road
Cranbury, New Jersey

35,642      Property and casualty insurance offices

555 Mission Street
San Francisco, California

35,298      Property and casualty insurance offices

CNA leases its office space described above except for the building in Chicago, Illinois, which is owned.

 

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DIAMOND OFFSHORE DRILLING, INC.

Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc. (“Diamond Offshore”) is engaged, through its subsidiaries, in the business of operating drilling rigs that are chartered on a contract basis for fixed terms by companies engaged in the exploration and production of hydrocarbons. Offshore rigs are mobile units that can be relocated based on market demand. Diamond Offshore accounted for 19.7%, 20.0% and 21.8% of our consolidated total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Rigs:  Diamond Offshore owns 38 offshore drilling rigs, excluding three mid-water semisubmersible rigs that it plans to retire and scrap. Diamond Offshore’s fleet consists of 27 semisubmersible rigs, including one which is under construction, six jack-ups and five dynamically positioned drillships, including one which is also under construction. Diamond Offshore’s diverse fleet enables it to offer a broad range of services worldwide in both the floater market (ultra-deepwater, deepwater and mid-water) and the non-floater, or jack-up market.

A floater rig is a type of mobile offshore drilling unit that floats and does not rest on the seafloor. This asset class includes self-propelled drillships and semisubmersible rigs. Semisubmersible rigs consist of an upper working and living deck resting on vertical columns connected to lower hull members. Such rigs operate in a “semi-submerged” position, remaining afloat, off bottom, in a position in which the lower hull is approximately 55 feet to 90 feet below the water line and the upper deck protrudes well above the surface. Semisubmersible rigs hold position while drilling by use of a series of small propulsion units or thrusters that provide dynamic positioning (“DP”) to keep the rig on location, or with anchors tethered to the seabed. Although DP semisubmersibles are self-propelled, such rigs may be moved long distances with the assistance of tug boats. Non-DP, or moored, semisubmersible rigs require tug boats or the use of a heavy lift vessel to move between locations.

A drillship is an adaptation of a maritime vessel which is designed and constructed to carry out drilling operations by means of a substructure with a moon pool centrally located in the hull. Drillships are typically self-propelled and are positioned over a drillsite through the use of either an anchoring system or a DP system similar to those used on semisubmersible rigs.

Diamond Offshore’s floater fleet (semisubmersibles and drillships) can be further categorized based on the nominal water depth for each class of rig as follows:

 

Category Rated Water Depth (a) (in feet) Number of Units in Fleet            

 

Ultra-Deepwater

7,501    to    12,000 13 (b)            

Deepwater

5,000    to      7,500 7                

Mid-Water

   400    to      4,999 12                 

 

(a)

Rated water depth for semisubmersibles and drillships reflects the maximum water depth in which a floating rig has been designed to operate. However, individual rigs are capable of drilling, or have drilled, in marginally greater water depths depending on various conditions (such as salinity of the ocean, weather and sea conditions).

(b)

Includes one drillship and one harsh environment semisubmersible rig under construction.

Jack-up rigs are mobile, self-elevating drilling platforms equipped with legs that are lowered to the ocean floor. Diamond Offshore’s jack-ups are used for drilling in water depths from 20 feet to 350 feet. The water depth limit of a particular rig is able to operate is principally determined by the length of the rig’s legs. The rig hull includes the drilling equipment, jacking system, crew quarters, loading and unloading facilities, storage areas for bulk and liquid materials, heliport and other related equipment. A jack-up rig is towed to the drillsite with its hull riding in the sea, as a vessel, with its legs retracted. Once over a drillsite, the legs are lowered until they rest on the seabed and jacking continues with the legs penetrating the seabed until they are firm and stable, and resistance is sufficient to elevate the hull above the surface of the water. After completion of drilling operations, the hull is lowered until it rests in the water and then the legs are retracted for relocation to another drillsite. All of Diamond Offshore’s jack-up rigs are equipped with a cantilever system that enables the rig to extend its drilling package over the aft end of the rig.

 

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Fleet Enhancements and Additions:  Diamond Offshore’s long term strategy is to upgrade its fleet to meet customer demand for advanced, efficient and high-tech rigs by acquiring or building new rigs when possible to do so at attractive prices, and otherwise by enhancing the capabilities of its existing rigs at a lower cost and shortened construction period than newbuild construction would require. Since 2009, commencing with the acquisition of two newbuild, ultra-deepwater semisubmersible rigs, Diamond Offshore has committed over $5.0 billion towards upgrading its fleet. In late 2014, Diamond Offshore took delivery of two ultra-deepwater drillships, the Ocean BlackHornet and the Ocean BlackRhino, which are expected to commence drilling operations in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico (“GOM”) in the second quarter of 2015. Construction of the Ocean Apex, a semisubmersible, was completed late in the fourth quarter of 2014, and the rig is currently operating under a one-well contract in Vietnam. Diamond Offshore also has two other construction projects underway including:

 

   

a dynamically positioned, ultra-deepwater drillship with an expected completion date in the first quarter of 2015 at an estimated cost of approximately $655 million;

 

   

a dynamically positioned, ultra-deepwater harsh environment semisubmersible drilling rig with an expected completion date in the first quarter of 2016 at an estimated cost of approximately $764 million.

Diamond Offshore will evaluate further rig acquisition and enhancement opportunities as they arise. However, Diamond Offshore can provide no assurance whether, or to what extent, it will continue to make rig acquisitions or enhancements to its fleet.

Markets:  The principal markets for Diamond Offshore’s contract drilling services are the following:

 

   

South America, principally offshore Brazil and Trinidad and Tobago;

 

   

Australia and Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam;

 

   

the Middle East;

 

   

Europe, principally in the United Kingdom (“U.K.”) and Norway;

 

   

East and West Africa;

 

   

the Mediterranean; and

 

   

the Gulf of Mexico, including the U.S. and Mexico.

Diamond Offshore actively markets its rigs worldwide. From time to time Diamond Offshore’s fleet operates in various other markets throughout the world.

Drilling Contracts:  Diamond Offshore’s contracts to provide offshore drilling services vary in their terms and provisions. Diamond Offshore typically obtains its contracts through a competitive bid process, although it is not unusual for Diamond Offshore to be awarded drilling contracts following direct negotiations. Drilling contracts generally provide for a basic fixed dayrate regardless of whether or not such drilling results in a productive well. Drilling contracts may also provide for reductions in rates during periods when the rig is being moved or when drilling operations are interrupted or restricted by equipment breakdowns, adverse weather conditions or other circumstances. Under dayrate contracts, Diamond Offshore generally pays the operating expenses of the rig, including wages and the cost of incidental supplies. Historically, dayrate contracts have accounted for the majority of Diamond Offshore’s revenues. In addition, from time to time, Diamond Offshore’s dayrate contracts may also provide for the ability to earn an incentive bonus from its customer based upon performance.

The duration of a dayrate drilling contract is generally tied to the time required to drill a single well or a group of wells, which Diamond Offshore refers to as a well-to-well contract, or a fixed period of time, in what Diamond Offshore refers to as a term contract. Many drilling contracts may be terminated by the customer in the event the drilling rig is destroyed or lost or if drilling operations are suspended for an extended period of time as a result of a breakdown of equipment or, in some cases, due to other events beyond the control of either party to the contract.

 

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Certain of Diamond Offshore’s contracts also permit the customer to terminate the contract early by giving notice, and in most circumstances, this requires the payment of an early termination fee by the customer. The contract term in many instances may also be extended by the customer exercising options for the drilling of additional wells or for an additional length of time, generally at competitive market rates and mutually agreeable terms at the time of the extension.

Customers:  Diamond Offshore provides offshore drilling services to a customer base that includes major and independent oil and gas companies and government-owned oil companies. During 2014, 2013 and 2012, Diamond Offshore performed services for 35, 39 and 35 different customers. During 2014, 2013 and 2012, one of Diamond Offshore’s customers in Brazil, Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. (“Petrobras”), (a Brazilian multinational energy company that is majority-owned by the Brazilian government), accounted for 32%, 34% and 33% of Diamond Offshore’s annual total consolidated revenues. OGX Petróleo e Gás Ltda., (a privately owned Brazilian oil and natural gas company that filed for bankruptcy in October of 2013), accounted for 2% and 12% of Diamond Offshore’s annual total consolidated revenues in each of the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012. No other customer accounted for 10% or more of Diamond Offshore’s annual total consolidated revenues during 2014, 2013 or 2012.

Diamond Offshore has six rigs currently contracted offshore Brazil and all four of its newbuild drillships are currently operating, or expected to begin operations, during 2015 in the GOM. Diamond Offshore’s contract backlog attributable to its expected operations offshore Brazil is $607 million, $395 million, $332 million and $159 million for the years 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018. Diamond Offshore’s contract backlog attributable to its expected operations in the GOM is $505 million, $523 million and $653 million for the years 2015, 2016 and 2017 and $1.2 billion in the aggregate for the years 2018 to 2020 attributable to four customers.

Competition:  Despite consolidation in previous years, the offshore contract drilling industry remains highly competitive with numerous industry participants, none of which at the present time has a dominant market share. The industry may also experience additional consolidation in the future, which could create other large competitors. Some of Diamond Offshore’s competitors may have greater financial or other resources than Diamond Offshore. Diamond Offshore competes with offshore drilling contractors that together have approximately 800 mobile drilling rigs, including approximately 300 floater rigs, marketed worldwide.

The offshore contract drilling industry is influenced by a number of factors, including global economies and demand for oil and natural gas, current and anticipated prices of oil and natural gas, expenditures by oil and gas companies for exploration and development of oil and natural gas and the availability of drilling rigs.

Drilling contracts are traditionally awarded on a competitive bid basis. Price is typically the primary factor in determining which qualified contractor is awarded a job. Customers may also consider rig availability and location, a drilling contractor’s operational and safety performance record, and condition and suitability of equipment. Diamond Offshore believes it competes favorably with respect to these factors.

Diamond Offshore competes on a worldwide basis, but competition may vary significantly by region at any particular time. Competition for offshore rigs generally takes place on a global basis, as these rigs are highly mobile and may be moved, at a cost that may be substantial, from one region to another. It is characteristic of the offshore contract drilling industry to move rigs from areas of low utilization and dayrates to areas of greater activity and relatively higher dayrates. Significant new rig construction and upgrades of existing drilling units could also intensify price competition.

Governmental Regulation:  Diamond Offshore’s operations are subject to numerous international, foreign, U.S., state and local laws and regulations that relate directly or indirectly to its operations, including regulations controlling the discharge of materials into the environment, requiring removal and clean-up under some circumstances, or otherwise relating to the protection of the environment, and may include laws or regulations pertaining to climate change, carbon emissions or energy use.

Operations Outside the United States:  Diamond Offshore’s operations outside the U.S. accounted for approximately 85%, 89% and 94% of its total consolidated revenues for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

 

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Properties:  Diamond Offshore owns an office building in Houston, Texas, where its corporate headquarters are located, offices and other facilities in New Iberia, Louisiana, Aberdeen, Scotland, Macae, Brazil and Ciudad del Carmen, Mexico. Additionally, Diamond Offshore currently leases various office, warehouse and storage facilities in Australia, Egypt, Indonesia, Louisiana, Malaysia, Romania, Singapore, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, the U.K. and Vietnam to support its offshore drilling operations.

BOARDWALK PIPELINE PARTNERS, LP

Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, LP (“Boardwalk Pipeline”) is engaged in integrated natural gas and natural gas liquids (“NGLs”) transportation and storage and natural gas gathering and processing. Boardwalk Pipeline accounted for 8.6%, 8.4% and 8.4% of our consolidated total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

We own approximately 53% of Boardwalk Pipeline comprised of 125,586,133 common units and a 2% general partner interest. A wholly owned subsidiary of ours, Boardwalk Pipelines Holding Corp. (“BPHC”) is the general partner and holds all of Boardwalk Pipeline’s incentive distribution rights which entitle the general partner to an increasing percentage of the cash that is distributed by Boardwalk Pipeline in excess of $0.4025 per unit per quarter.

Boardwalk Pipeline owns and operates approximately 14,190 miles of interconnected natural gas pipelines directly serving customers in 13 states and indirectly serving customers throughout the northeastern and southeastern United States through numerous interconnections with unaffiliated pipelines. Boardwalk Pipeline also owns approximately 435 miles of NGL pipelines in Louisiana and Texas. In 2014, its pipeline systems transported approximately 2.5 trillion cubic feet (“Tcf”) of natural gas and approximately 34.4 million barrels (“MMBbls”) of NGLs. Average daily throughput on Boardwalk Pipeline’s natural gas pipeline systems during 2014 was approximately 6.9 billion cubic feet (“Bcf”). Boardwalk Pipeline’s natural gas storage facilities are comprised of 14 underground storage fields located in four states with aggregate working gas capacity of approximately 208.0 Bcf and Boardwalk Pipeline’s NGL storage facilities consist of eight salt dome storage caverns located in Louisiana with an aggregate storage capacity of approximately 17.6 MMBbls. Boardwalk Pipeline also owns three salt dome caverns and a brine pond for use in providing brine supply services and to support the NGL storage operations.

The pipeline and storage systems of Boardwalk Pipeline consist of the following:

The Gulf South pipeline system runs approximately 7,400 miles along the Gulf Coast in the states of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida. The pipeline system has a peak-day delivery capacity of 7.0 Bcf per day and average daily throughput for the year ended December 31, 2014 was 2.9 Bcf per day. In October of 2014, Gulf South placed into service its Southeast Market Expansion, adding approximately 0.5 Bcf per day of peak-day transmission capacity. Gulf South has ten natural gas storage facilities with 83.5 Bcf of working gas storage capacity. Gulf South also owns and operates eight salt dome natural gas storage caverns in Mississippi, with 45.5 Bcf of total storage capacity, of which approximately 28.6 Bcf is working gas capacity, and owns undeveloped land which is suitable for up to five additional storage caverns.

The Texas Gas pipeline system originates in Louisiana, East Texas and Arkansas and runs for approximately 6,060 miles north and east through Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, and into Ohio, with smaller diameter lines extending into Illinois. The pipeline system has a peak-day delivery capacity of 4.5 Bcf per day and average daily throughput for the year ended December 31, 2014 was 2.7 Bcf per day. Texas Gas owns nine natural gas storage fields with 84.3 Bcf of working gas storage capacity.

The Gulf Crossing pipeline system, which originates in Texas and proceeds into Louisiana, operates approximately 375 miles of natural gas pipeline. The pipeline system has a peak-day delivery capacity of 1.9 Bcf per day and average daily throughput for the year ended December 31, 2014 was 1.2 Bcf per day.

Louisiana Midstream’s storage services provide approximately 61.5 MMBbls of salt dome storage capacity, including approximately 11.2 Bcf of working natural gas storage capacity and approximately 17.6 MMBbls of salt dome NGL storage capacity, significant brine supply infrastructure including three salt dome caverns and approximately 270 miles of pipeline assets, including an extensive ethylene distribution system. Throughput was 33.8 MMBbls for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

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Boardwalk Petrochemical owns and operates the Evangeline Pipeline (“Evangeline”), which is an approximately 180 mile interstate pipeline that, when fully operational, is expected to be capable of transporting approximately 2.6 billion pounds of ethylene per year between Texas and Louisiana, where it interconnects with Louisiana Midstream’s ethylene distribution system. Boardwalk Pipeline acquired Evangeline in October of 2014. Throughput for the 2014 period since acquisition was 0.6 MMBbls.

Boardwalk Field Services operates natural gas gathering, compression, treating and processing infrastructure primarily in south Texas with approximately 340 miles of pipeline.

Boardwalk Pipeline is currently engaged in the following growth projects. With the exception of the Sulphur Storage and Pipeline Expansion project, these projects remain subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”) regulatory approval. See Liquidity and Capital Resources – Boardwalk Pipeline for further discussion of capital expenditures and financing.

Ohio to Louisiana Access Project: This project will provide long term firm natural gas transportation primarily from the Marcellus and Utica production areas to Louisiana, and while not creating additional capacity, would make a portion of Boardwalk Pipeline’s Texas Gas system bi-directional. The project is supported by firm transportation contracts with producers and end-users and has a weighted average contract life of approximately 13 years. The project is expected to be placed into service in the first half of 2016.

Southern Indiana Market Lateral Project: This project, subject to one of the customer’s final board approval, will consist of the construction of approximately 30 miles of pipeline from Indiana to Kentucky, adding approximately 0.2 Bcf per day of peak-day transmission capacity to Boardwalk Pipeline’s Texas Gas system. The project is expected to be placed into service in the second half of 2016, with a weighted-average contract life of 20 years.

Western Kentucky Market Lateral Project: This project would construct a pipeline lateral to provide deliveries to a proposed new power plant in Western Kentucky, adding approximately 0.2 Bcf per day of peak-day transmission capacity to Boardwalk Pipeline’s Texas Gas system. The project is expected to be placed into service in the second half of 2016, with a weighted-average contract life of 20 years.

Power Plant Project in South Texas: In 2015, Boardwalk Pipeline executed a precedent agreement with a foundation shipper for a project which consists of the addition of compression facilities and modifications of existing facilities to increase the operating capacity of certain sections of the Gulf South pipeline, providing transportation services of 0.2 Bcf per day to a new power plant in South Texas. The project is expected to be placed into service in the second half of 2016, with a weighted-average contract life of 20 years.

Sulphur Storage and Pipeline Expansion Project: In 2014, Boardwalk Pipeline executed a long term agreement to provide transportation and storage services to support the development of a new ethane cracker plant in Louisiana. The project would involve significant storage and infrastructure development to serve petrochemical customers near Boardwalk Pipeline’s Sulphur Hub and is expected to be placed into service in the second half of 2017.

Northern Supply Access Project: This project will increase the peak-day transmission capacity on Boardwalk Pipeline’s Texas Gas system by the addition of compression facilities and other system modifications to make a portion of the system bi-directional and is supported by precedent agreements for 0.3 Bcf per day of peak-day transmission capacity. The project is expected to be placed into service in the second half of 2017, with a weighted-average contract life of 16 years.

Coastal Bend Header Project: In 2014, Boardwalk Pipeline executed precedent agreements with foundation shippers to transport approximately 1.4 Bcf per day of natural gas to serve a planned liquefaction terminal in Freeport, Texas. This project will consist of the construction of an approximately 65-mile pipeline supply header to serve the terminal as well as expansion and modifications to existing Gulf South pipeline facilities that will provide access to additional supply sources. The project is expected to be placed into service in 2018, with a weighted-average contract life of 20 years.

 

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Customers:  Boardwalk Pipeline serves a broad mix of customers, including producers of natural gas, local distribution companies, marketers, electric power generators, industrial users and interstate and intrastate pipelines, located throughout the Gulf Coast, Midwest and Northeast regions of the U.S.

Competition:  Boardwalk Pipeline competes with numerous other pipelines that provide transportation, storage and other services at many locations along its pipeline systems. Boardwalk Pipeline also competes with pipelines that are attached to natural gas supply sources that are closer to some of its traditional natural gas market areas. In addition, regulators’ continuing efforts to increase competition in the natural gas industry have increased the natural gas transportation options of Boardwalk Pipeline’s traditional customers. As a result of regulators’ policies, capacity segmentation and capacity release have created an active secondary market which increasingly competes with Boardwalk Pipeline’s natural gas pipeline services. Further, natural gas competes with other forms of energy available to Boardwalk Pipeline’s customers, including electricity, coal, fuel oils and alternative fuel sources.

The principal elements of competition among pipelines are availability of capacity, rates, terms of service, access to gas supplies, flexibility and reliability of service. In many cases, the elements of competition, in particular flexibility, terms of service and reliability, are key differentiating factors between competitors. This is especially the case with capacity being sold on a longer term basis. Boardwalk Pipeline is focused on finding opportunities to enhance its competitive profile in these areas by increasing the flexibility of its pipeline systems, such as modifying them to allow for bi-directional flows, to meet the demands of customers, such as power generators and industrial users, and is continually reviewing its services and terms of service to offer customers enhanced service options.

Seasonality:  Boardwalk Pipeline’s revenues can be affected by weather, natural gas price levels, gas price differentials between locations on its pipeline systems (basis spreads), gas price differentials between time periods, such as winter to summer (time period price spreads) and natural gas price volatility. Weather impacts natural gas demand for heating needs and power generation, which in turn influences the short term value of transportation and storage across Boardwalk Pipeline’s pipeline systems. Colder than normal winters can result in an increase in the demand for natural gas for heating needs and warmer than normal summers can impact cooling needs, both of which typically result in increased pipeline transportation revenues and throughput. While traditionally peak demand for natural gas occurs during the winter months driven by heating needs, the increased use of natural gas for cooling needs during the summer months has partially reduced the seasonality of revenues. In 2014, approximately 54% of Boardwalk Pipeline’s revenue was recognized in the first and fourth quarters of the year.

Governmental Regulation:  FERC regulates Boardwalk Pipeline’s natural gas operating subsidiaries under the Natural Gas Act of 1938 (“NGA”) and the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978. FERC regulates, among other things, the rates and charges for the transportation and storage of natural gas in interstate commerce and the extension, enlargement or abandonment of facilities under its jurisdiction. Where required, Boardwalk Pipeline’s natural gas interstate subsidiaries hold certificates of public convenience and necessity issued by FERC covering certain of their facilities, activities and services. The maximum rates that may be charged by Boardwalk Pipeline’s subsidiaries operating under FERC’s jurisdiction, for all aspects of the natural gas transportation services it provides, are established through FERC’s cost-of-service rate-making process. Key determinants in FERC’s cost-of-service rate-making process are the costs of providing service, the volumes of gas being transported, the rate design, the allocation of costs between services, the capital structure and the rate of return a pipeline is permitted to earn. The maximum rates that may be charged by Boardwalk Pipeline for storage services on Texas Gas, with the exception of services associated with a portion of the working gas capacity on that system, are established through FERC’s cost-of-service rate-making process. FERC has authorized Boardwalk Pipeline to charge market-based rates for its firm and interruptible storage services for the majority of its natural gas storage facilities.

In October of 2014, Boardwalk Pipeline’s Gulf South subsidiary filed a rate case with the FERC pursuant to Section 4 of the NGA (Docket No. RP 15-65), in which Gulf South is requesting, among other things, a reconfiguration of the transportation rate zones on its system and, in general, an increase in its tariff rates. The new tariff rates are expected to become effective May 1, 2015, subject to refund, which means that Boardwalk Pipeline will be responsible for refunds if the FERC later finds that its proposed rates are not just and reasonable. Since the rate case is in the initial stages, the ultimate outcome and impacts on Boardwalk Pipeline’s earnings and cash flows for 2015 and beyond cannot be predicted at this time.

 

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Boardwalk Pipeline is also regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation (“DOT”) through the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (“PHMSA”) under the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968, as amended by Title I of the Pipeline Safety Act of 1979 (“NGPSA”) and the Hazardous Liquids Pipeline Safety Act of 1979 (“HLPSA”). The NGPSA and HLPSA govern the design, installation, testing, construction, operation, replacement and management of interstate natural gas and NGL pipeline facilities. Boardwalk Pipeline has received authority from PHMSA to operate certain natural gas pipeline assets under special permits that will allow it to operate those assets at higher than normal operating pressures of up to 0.80 of the pipe’s Specified Minimum Yield Strength (“SMYS”). Operating at higher than normal operating pressures will allow each of these pipelines to transport all of the volumes Boardwalk Pipeline has contracted for with its customers. PHMSA retains discretion whether to grant or maintain authority for Boardwalk Pipeline to operate these natural gas pipeline assets at higher pressures. PHMSA has also developed regulations that require transportation pipeline operators to implement integrity management programs to comprehensively evaluate certain high risk areas along their pipelines and take additional measures to protect pipeline segments located in highly populated areas. The NGPSA and HLPSA were most recently amended by the Pipeline Safety, Regulatory Certainty, and Job Creation Act of 2011 (“2011 Act”) in 2012, with the 2011 Act requiring increased maximum civil penalties for certain violations to $200,000 per violation per day, and an increased total cap of $2 million. In addition, the 2011 Act reauthorized the federal pipeline safety programs of PHMSA through September 30, 2015, and directs the Secretary of Transportation to undertake a number of reviews, studies and reports, some of which may result in more stringent safety controls or additional natural gas and hazardous liquids pipeline safety rulemaking. A number of the provisions of the 2011 Act have the potential to cause owners and operators of pipeline facilities to incur significant capital expenditures and/or operating costs.

The Surface Transportation Board (“STB”), also a division of the DOT, has authority to regulate the rates Boardwalk Pipeline charges for service on its ethylene pipelines. The STB requires that Boardwalk Pipeline’s transportation rates be reasonable and that its practices cannot unreasonably discriminate among its ethylene shippers.

Boardwalk Pipeline’s operations are also subject to extensive federal, state, and local laws and regulations relating to protection of the environment. Such laws and regulations impose, among other things, restrictions, liabilities and obligations in connection with the generation, handling, use, storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of hazardous substances and waste and in connection with spills, releases, discharges and emissions of various substances into the environment. Environmental regulations also require that Boardwalk Pipeline’s facilities, sites and other properties be operated, maintained, abandoned and reclaimed to the satisfaction of applicable regulatory authorities.

Failure to comply with these laws and regulations may result in the assessment of administrative, civil and criminal penalties, the imposition of corrective or remedial obligations and the issuance of orders enjoining performance of some or all of Boardwalk Pipeline’s operations. While Boardwalk Pipeline believes that they are in substantial compliance with existing environmental laws and regulations and that continued compliance with existing requirements will not materially affect them, there is no assurance that the current regulatory standards will not become more onerous in the future, resulting in more significant costs to maintain compliance or increased exposure to significant liabilities.

Properties:  Boardwalk Pipeline is headquartered in approximately 108,000 square feet of leased office space located in Houston, Texas. Boardwalk Pipeline also leases approximately 60,000 square feet of office space in Owensboro, Kentucky. Boardwalk Pipeline’s operating subsidiaries own their respective pipeline systems in fee. However, substantial portions of these systems are constructed and maintained on property owned by others pursuant to rights-of-way, easements, permits, licenses or consents.

 

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LOEWS HOTELS HOLDING CORPORATION

The subsidiaries of Loews Hotels Holding Corporation (collectively “Loews Hotels”), our wholly owned subsidiary, presently operate a chain of 21 primarily upper, upscale hotels. Ten of these hotels are owned by Loews Hotels, eight are owned by joint ventures in which Loews Hotels has a significant equity interest and three are managed for unaffiliated owners. Loews Hotels’ earnings are derived from the operation of its wholly owned hotels, its share of earnings in joint venture hotels and hotel management fees earned from both joint venture and managed hotels. Loews Hotels accounted for 3.3%, 2.6% and 2.8% of our consolidated total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. The hotels are described below.

 

 

  Number of   
Name and Location Rooms   

Owned:

Loews Annapolis Hotel, Annapolis, Maryland

  215           

Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel, Chicago, Illinois

  556           

Loews Coronado Bay Resort, San Diego, California (a)

  439           

Loews Miami Beach Hotel, Miami Beach, Florida

  790           

Loews Minneapolis Hotel, Minneapolis, Minnesota (b)

  251           

Loews Philadelphia Hotel, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

  581           

Loews Regency Hotel, New York, New York (c)

  379           

Loews Vanderbilt Hotel, Nashville, Tennessee

  340           

Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, Tucson, Arizona

  398           

Loews Hotel Vogue, Montreal, Canada

  142           

Joint Venture:

Hard Rock Hotel, at Universal Orlando, Orlando, Florida

  650           

Loews Boston Hotel, Boston, Massachusetts

  225           

Loews Don CeSar Hotel, St. Pete Beach, Florida

  347           

Loews Hollywood Hotel, Hollywood, California

  628           

Loews Madison Hotel, Washington, D.C.

  356           

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, at Universal Orlando, Orlando, Florida

  750           

Loews Royal Pacific Resort, at Universal Orlando, Orlando, Florida

  1,000           

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Orlando, Florida

  1,800           

Management Contract:

Loews Atlanta Hotel, Atlanta, Georgia

  414           

Loews New Orleans Hotel, New Orleans, Louisiana

  285           

Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, Santa Monica, California

  347           

 

(a)

The hotel has a land lease expiring in 2034.

(b)

The hotel has a land lease expiring in 2028 with an option to purchase the land.

(c)

The hotel has a land lease expiring in 2036 with a renewal option for 24 years.

Competition:  Competition from other hotels and lodging facilities is vigorous in all areas in which Loews Hotels operates. The demand for hotel rooms is seasonal and dependent on general and local economic conditions. Loews Hotels properties also compete with facilities offering similar services in locations other than those in which its hotels are located. Competition among luxury hotels is based primarily on quality of location, facilities and service. Competition among resort and commercial hotels is based on price and facilities as well as location and service. Because of the competitive nature of the industry, hotels must continually make expenditures for updating, refurnishing and repairs and maintenance, in order to prevent competitive obsolescence.

 

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Recent Developments:

 

   

In March of 2014, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort in Orlando, Florida opened a property in which Loews Hotels has a joint venture interest;

 

   

In July of 2014, Loews Hotels acquired a hotel in Chicago, Illinois, which is now operating as the Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel;

 

   

In July of 2014, Loews Hotels acquired a hotel in Minneapolis, Minnesota, which is now operating as the Loews Minneapolis Hotel;

 

   

In September of 2014, construction commenced on the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, at Universal Orlando in Orlando, Florida, a property in which Loews Hotels has a joint venture interest;

 

   

In October of 2014, Loews Hotels acquired the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson, Arizona, which previously had been operated by Loews Hotels under a management agreement; and

 

   

In the first quarter of 2015, Loews Hotels will purchase, upon substantial completion, a hotel in Chicago, Illinois, which is expected to operate as the Loews Chicago Hotel.

EMPLOYEE RELATIONS

Including our operating subsidiaries as described below, we employed approximately 17,510 persons at December 31, 2014 as follows:

CNA employed approximately 6,900 persons.

Diamond Offshore employed approximately 5,200 persons, including international crew personnel furnished through independent labor contractors.

Boardwalk Pipeline employed approximately 1,230 persons, approximately 120 of whom are union members covered under collective bargaining units.

Loews Hotels employed approximately 3,920 persons, approximately 975 of whom are union members covered under collective bargaining units.

We, and our subsidiaries, have experienced satisfactory labor relations.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

 

      First  
      Became  
Name Position and Offices Held     Age         Officer  
David B. Edelson

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

    55         2005  
Gary W. Garson

Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary

    68         1988  
Richard W. Scott

Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer

    61         2009  
Kenneth I. Siegel

Senior Vice President

    57         2009  
Andrew H. Tisch

Office of the President, Co-Chairman of the Board and Chairman of the Executive Committee

    65         1985  
James S. Tisch

Office of the President, President and Chief Executive Officer

    62         1981  
Jonathan M. Tisch

Office of the President and Co-Chairman of the Board

    61         1987  

Andrew H. Tisch and James S. Tisch are brothers and are cousins of Jonathan M. Tisch. None of the other officers or directors of Registrant is related to any other.

 

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All of our executive officers have been engaged actively and continuously in our business for more than the past five years.

Officers are elected and hold office until their successors are elected and qualified, and are subject to removal by the Board of Directors.

AVAILABLE INFORMATION

Our website address is www.loews.com. We make available, free of charge, through the website our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as soon as reasonably practicable after these reports are electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC. Copies of our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, Corporate Governance Guidelines, Audit Committee charter, Compensation Committee charter and Nominating and Governance Committee charter have also been posted and are available on our website.

Item 1A.  RISK FACTORS.

Our business faces many risks. We have described below some of the more significant risks which we and our subsidiaries face. There may be additional risks that we do not yet know of or that we do not currently perceive to be significant that may also impact our business or the business of our subsidiaries.

Each of the risks and uncertainties described below could lead to events or circumstances that have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows, financial condition or equity and/or the business, results of operations, financial condition or equity of one or more of our subsidiaries.

You should carefully consider and evaluate all of the information included in this Report and any subsequent reports we may file with the SEC or make available to the public before investing in any securities issued by us. Our subsidiaries, CNA Financial Corporation, Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc. and Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, LP, are public companies and file reports with the SEC. You are also cautioned to carefully review and consider the information contained in the reports filed by those subsidiaries before investing in any of their securities.

Risks Related to Us and Our Subsidiary, CNA Financial Corporation

If CNA determines that its recorded insurance reserves are insufficient to cover its estimated ultimate unpaid liability for claim and claim adjustment expenses, CNA may need to increase its insurance reserves which would result in a charge to CNA’s earnings.

CNA maintains insurance reserves to cover its estimated ultimate unpaid liability for claim and claim adjustment expenses, including the estimated cost of the claims adjudication process, for reported and unreported claims. Insurance reserves are not an exact calculation of liability but instead are complex estimates derived by CNA, generally utilizing a variety of reserve estimation techniques from numerous assumptions and expectations about future events, many of which are highly uncertain, such as estimates of claims severity, frequency of claims, mortality, morbidity, discount rates, inflation, claims handling, case reserving policies and procedures, underwriting and pricing policies, changes in the legal and regulatory environment and the lag time between the occurrence of an insured event and the time of its ultimate settlement. Mortality is the relative incidence of death. Morbidity is the frequency and severity of injury, illness, sickness and diseases contracted. Many of these uncertainties are not precisely quantifiable and require significant judgment on CNA’s part. As trends in underlying claims develop, particularly in long-tail and long duration coverages, CNA is sometimes required to add to its reserves. This is called unfavorable net prior year development and results in a charge to earnings in the amount of the added reserves, recorded in the period the change in estimate is made. These charges could be substantial.

CNA is also subject to the uncertain effects of emerging or potential claims and coverage issues that arise as industry practices and legal, judicial, social, economic and other environmental conditions change. These issues have had, and may continue to have, a negative effect on CNA’s business by either extending coverage beyond the original underwriting intent or by increasing the number or size of claims, resulting in further increases in CNA’s

 

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reserves. The effects of these and other unforeseen emerging claim and coverage issues are extremely difficult to predict. Examples of emerging or potential claims and coverage issues include:

 

   

uncertainty in future medical costs in workers’ compensation. In particular, medical cost inflation could be greater than expected due to new treatments, drugs and devices; increased health care utilization; and/or the future costs of health care facilities. In addition, the relationship between workers’ compensation and government and private health care providers could change, potentially shifting costs to workers’ compensation;

 

   

increased uncertainty related to medical professional liability, medical products liability and workers’ compensation coverages resulting from the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act;

 

   

significant class action litigation; and

 

   

mass tort claims, including bodily injury claims related to benzene, lead, noise induced hearing loss, injuries from various medical products including pharmaceuticals and various other chemical and radiation exposure claims.

In light of the many uncertainties associated with establishing the estimates and making the assumptions necessary to establish reserve levels, CNA reviews and changes its reserve estimates in a regular and ongoing process as experience develops and further claims are reported and settled. If estimated reserves are insufficient for any reason, the required increase in reserves would be recorded as a charge against earnings in the period in which reserves are determined to be insufficient. These charges could be substantial.

CNA’s key assumptions used to determine active life reserves for long term care policies could vary significantly from actual experience.

CNA’s reserves for long term care policies are based on key assumptions including morbidity, persistency (the percentage of policies remaining in force), discount rate and future rate increases. These assumptions, which are critical bases for its reserve estimates are inherently uncertain. If actual experience varies from these assumptions or the future outlook for these assumptions changes, CNA may be required to increase its reserves.

Estimating future experience for long term care policies is highly uncertain because the required projection period is very long and there is limited historical data and industry data available to CNA, as only a small portion of the long term care policies which have been written to date are in claims paying status. Morbidity and persistency trends can be volatile and may be negatively affected by many factors including, but not limited to, overall population mortality trends, advances in medical care and voluntary lapse experience.

A prolonged period during which interest rates remain at levels lower than those anticipated in CNA’s reserving would result in shortfalls in investment income on assets supporting CNA’s obligations under long term care policies, which may require changes to its reserves. This risk is more significant for long term care products because the long potential duration of the policy obligations exceeds the duration of the supporting investment assets. In addition, CNA may not receive regulatory approval for the rate increases it requests. Any adverse deviation of future rate increases approved relative to CNA’s reserving assumptions may require an increase to its reserves.

If CNA’s estimated reserves are insufficient for any reason, including changes in assumptions, the required increase in reserves would be recorded as a charge against earnings in the period in which reserves are determined to be insufficient. These charges could be substantial.

Catastrophe losses are unpredictable and could result in material losses.

Catastrophe losses are an inevitable part of CNA’s business. Various events can cause catastrophe losses. These events can be natural or man-made, and may include hurricanes, windstorms, earthquakes, hail, severe winter weather, fires, floods, riots, strikes, civil commotion and acts of terrorism. The frequency and severity of these catastrophe events are inherently unpredictable. In addition, longer-term natural catastrophe trends may be changing and new types of catastrophe losses may be developing due to climate change, a phenomenon that has been

 

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associated with extreme weather events linked to rising temperatures, and includes effects on global weather patterns, greenhouse gases, sea, land and air temperatures, sea levels, rain, hail and snow.

The extent of CNA’s losses from catastrophes is a function of the total amount of its insured exposures in the affected areas, the frequency and severity of the events themselves, the level of reinsurance assumed and ceded and reinsurance reinstatement premiums, if any. As in the case of catastrophe losses generally, it can take a long time for the ultimate cost to CNA to be finally determined, as a multitude of factors contribute to such costs, including evaluation of general liability and pollution exposures, additional living expenses, infrastructure disruption, business interruption and reinsurance collectibility. Reinsurance coverage for terrorism events is provided only in limited circumstances, especially in regard to “unconventional” terrorism acts, such as nuclear, biological, chemical or radiological attacks. As a result, catastrophe losses are particularly difficult to estimate. The Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2015 was enacted on January 12, 2015. The reauthorization provides for a federal government backstop for insured terrorism risks for another six years with increases to the insurer co-payment and program trigger. The existence of the mitigating effects of such law is part of the analysis of CNA’s overall risk posture for terrorism and, accordingly, its risk positioning may change if such law were modified.

CNA has exposure related to A&EP claims, which could result in material losses.

CNA’s property and casualty insurance subsidiaries have exposures related to A&EP claims. CNA’s experience has been that establishing claim and claim adjustment expense reserves for casualty coverages relating to A&EP claims is subject to uncertainties that are greater than those presented by other claims. Additionally, traditional actuarial methods and techniques employed to estimate the ultimate cost of claims for more traditional property and casualty exposures are less precise in estimating claim and claim adjustment expense reserves for A&EP. As a result, estimating the ultimate cost of both reported and unreported A&EP claims is subject to a higher degree of variability.

On August 31, 2010, CNA completed a retroactive reinsurance transaction under which substantially all of its legacy A&EP liabilities were ceded to National Indemnity Company (“NICO”), a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc., subject to an aggregate limit of $4.0 billion (“Loss Portfolio Transfer” or “LPT”). The cumulative amount ceded under the Loss Portfolio Transfer at December 31, 2014 is $2.5 billion. If the other parties to the Loss Portfolio Transfer do not fully perform their obligations, CNA’s liabilities for A&EP claims covered by the Loss Portfolio Transfer exceed the aggregate limit of $4.0 billion, or CNA determines it has exposures to A&EP claims not covered by the Loss Portfolio Transfer, CNA may need to increase its recorded net reserves which would result in a charge against earnings. These charges could be substantial.

CNA faces intense competition in its industry and may be adversely affected by the cyclical nature of the property and casualty business as well as the availability and cost of reinsurance.

All aspects of the insurance industry are highly competitive and CNA must continuously allocate resources to refine and improve its insurance products and services. CNA competes with a large number of stock and mutual insurance companies and other entities for both distributors and customers. Insurers compete on the basis of factors including products, price, services, ratings and financial strength. The property and casualty market is cyclical and has experienced periods characterized by relatively high levels of price competition, resulting in less restrictive underwriting standards and relatively low premium rates, followed by periods of relatively lower levels of competition, more selective underwriting standards and relatively high premium rates. During periods in which price competition is high, CNA may lose business to competitors offering competitive insurance products at lower prices. As a result, CNA’s premium levels and expense ratio could be materially adversely impacted.

Additionally, CNA purchases reinsurance to help manage its exposure to risk. Under CNA’s ceded reinsurance arrangements, another insurer assumes a specified portion of CNA’s exposure in exchange for a specified portion of policy premiums. Market conditions determine the availability and cost of the reinsurance protection CNA purchases, which affects the level of its business and profitability, as well as the level and types of risk CNA retains. If CNA is unable to obtain sufficient reinsurance at a cost it deems acceptable, CNA may be unwilling to bear the increased risk and would reduce the level of its underwriting commitments.

 

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CNA may not be able to collect amounts owed to it by reinsurers which could result in higher net incurred losses.

CNA has significant amounts recoverable from reinsurers which are reported as receivables on its balance sheets and are estimated in a manner consistent with claim and claim adjustment expense reserves or future policy benefits reserves. The ceding of insurance does not, however, discharge CNA’s primary liability for claims. As a result, CNA is subject to credit risk relating to its ability to recover amounts due from reinsurers. Certain of CNA’s reinsurance carriers have experienced credit downgrades by rating agencies within the term of CNA’s contractual relationship. Such action increases the likelihood that CNA will not be able to recover amounts due. In addition, reinsurers could dispute amounts which CNA believes are due to it. If the amounts CNA collects from reinsurers are less than the amount recorded for any of the foregoing reasons, its net incurred losses will be higher.

CNA may not be able to collect amounts owed to it by policyholders who hold deductible policies which could result in higher net incurred losses.

A portion of CNA’s business is written under deductible policies. Under these policies, CNA is obligated to pay the related insurance claims and are reimbursed by the policyholder to the extent of the deductible, which may be significant. As a result, CNA is exposed to credit risk to the policyholder. If the amounts CNA collects from policyholders are less than the amounts recorded, its incurred losses will be higher.

CNA may incur significant realized and unrealized investment losses and volatility in net investment income arising from changes in the financial markets.

CNA’s investment portfolio is exposed to various risks, such as interest rate, credit spread, issuer default, equity and currency, many of which are unpredictable. Financial markets are highly sensitive to changes in economic conditions, monetary policies, domestic and international geopolitical issues and many other factors. Changes in financial markets including fluctuations in interest rates, credit, equity and currency prices, and many other factors beyond CNA’s control can adversely affect the value of its investments, the realization of investment income and the rate at which it discounts certain liabilities.

CNA has significant holdings in fixed maturity investments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates. A decline in interest rates may reduce the returns earned on new fixed maturity investments, thereby reducing CNA’s net investment income, while an increase in interest rates may reduce the value of its existing fixed maturity investments. The value of CNA’s fixed maturity investments is also subject to risk that certain investments may default or become impaired due to deterioration in the financial condition of issuers of the investments CNA holds. Any such impairments which CNA deems to be other-than-temporary would result in a charge to its earnings.

In addition, CNA invests a portion of its assets in equity securities and limited partnerships which are subject to greater market volatility than its fixed maturity investments. Limited partnership investments generally provide a lower level of liquidity than fixed maturity or equity investments and therefore may also limit CNA’s ability to withdraw assets. As a result of all of these factors, CNA may not earn an adequate return on its investments, may incur losses on the disposition of its investments and may be required to write-down the value of its investments.

CNA’s valuation of investments and impairment of securities requires significant judgment which is inherently uncertain.

CNA exercises significant judgment in analyzing and validating fair values, which are primarily provided by third parties, for securities in its investment portfolio including those that are not regularly traded in active markets. CNA also exercises significant judgment in determining whether the impairment of particular investments is temporary or other-than-temporary. The valuation of residential and commercial mortgage and other asset backed securities can be particularly sensitive to small changes in collateral performance. Due to the inherent uncertainties involved with these judgments, CNA may incur unrealized losses and conclude that other-than-temporary write-downs of its investments are required.

 

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CNA is subject to capital adequacy requirements and, if it is unable to maintain or raise sufficient capital to meet these requirements, regulatory agencies may restrict or prohibit CNA from operating its business.

Insurance companies such as CNA are subject to capital adequacy standards set by regulators to help identify companies that merit further regulatory attention. These standards apply specified risk factors to various asset, premium and reserve components of statutory capital and surplus reported in CNA’s statutory basis of accounting financial statements. Current rules, including those promulgated by insurance regulators and specialized markets such as Lloyd’s, require companies to maintain statutory capital and surplus at a specified minimum level determined using the applicable regulatory capital adequacy formula. If CNA does not meet these minimum requirements, CNA may be restricted or prohibited from operating its business. If CNA is required to record a material charge against earnings in connection with a change in estimates or the occurrence of an event or if it incurs significant losses related to its investment portfolio, CNA may violate these minimum capital adequacy requirements unless it is able to raise sufficient additional capital. CNA may be limited in its ability to raise significant amounts of capital on favorable terms or at all.

CNA’s insurance subsidiaries, upon whom CNA depends for dividends in order to fund its working capital needs, are limited by insurance regulators in their ability to pay dividends.

CNA is a holding company and is dependent upon dividends, loans and other sources of cash from its subsidiaries in order to meet its obligations. Ordinary dividend payments or dividends that do not require prior approval by the insurance subsidiaries’ domiciliary insurance regulator are generally limited to amounts determined by formula which varies by jurisdiction. If CNA is restricted, by regulatory rule or otherwise, from paying or receiving intercompany dividends, CNA may not be able to fund its working capital needs and debt service requirements from available cash. As a result, CNA would need to look to other sources of capital which may be more expensive or may not be available at all.

Rating agencies may downgrade their ratings of CNA and thereby adversely affect its ability to write insurance at competitive rates or at all.

Ratings are an important factor in establishing the competitive position of insurance companies. CNA’s insurance company subsidiaries, as well as CNA’s public debt, are rated by rating agencies, namely, A.M. Best Company (“A.M. Best”), Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (“Moody’s”) and Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”). Ratings reflect the rating agency’s opinions of an insurance company’s or insurance holding company’s financial strength, capital adequacy, operating performance, strategic position and ability to meet its obligations to policyholders and debt holders.

The rating agencies may take action to lower CNA’s ratings in the future as a result of any significant financial loss or possible changes in the methodology or criteria applied by the rating agencies. The severity of the impact on CNA’s business is dependent on the level of downgrade and, for certain products, which rating agency takes the rating action. Among the adverse effects in the event of such downgrades would be the inability to obtain a material volume of business from certain major insurance brokers, the inability to sell a material volume of CNA’s insurance products to certain markets and the required collateralization of certain future payment obligations or reserves.

In addition, it is possible that a lowering of our corporate debt ratings by certain of the rating agencies could result in an adverse impact on CNA’s ratings, independent of any change in CNA’s circumstances.

Risks Related to Us and Our Subsidiary, Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc.

The worldwide demand for Diamond Offshore’s drilling services significantly declined as a result of the decline in oil prices during the second half of 2014.

Demand for Diamond Offshore’s drilling services depends in large part upon oil and natural gas industry offshore exploration and production activity and expenditure levels, which are directly affected by oil and gas prices and market expectations of potential changes in oil and gas prices. Oil prices declined precipitously during the second half of 2014, which caused a decline in the demand for offshore drilling services. Any prolonged substantial reduction in oil and gas prices would adversely affect demand for the services that Diamond Offshore provides. A

 

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prolonged substantial reduction in demand for Diamond Offshore’s drilling services as a result of a decline in oil prices could have a material adverse effect on Diamond Offshore’s business.

Oil prices have been, and are expected to continue to be, volatile and are affected by numerous factors beyond Diamond Offshore’s control, including:

 

    worldwide supply and demand for oil and gas;

 

    the level of economic activity in energy-consuming markets;

 

   

the worldwide economic environment or economic trends, such as recessions;

 

   

the ability of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (“OPEC”) to set and maintain production levels and pricing;

 

    the level of production in non-OPEC countries;

 

   

civil unrest and the worldwide political and military environment, including uncertainty or instability resulting from an escalation or additional outbreak of armed hostilities involving the Middle East, Russia, other oil-producing regions or other geographic areas or further acts of terrorism in the United States or elsewhere;

 

    the cost of exploring for, developing, producing and delivering oil and gas;

 

    the discovery rate of new oil and gas reserves;

 

    the rate of decline of existing and new oil and gas reserves and production;

 

    available pipeline and other oil and gas transportation and refining capacity;

 

    the ability of oil and gas companies to raise capital;

 

   

weather conditions, including hurricanes, which can affect oil and gas operations over a wide area;

 

   

natural disasters or incidents resulting from operating hazards inherent in offshore drilling, such as oil spills;

 

   

the policies of various governments regarding exploration and development of their oil and gas reserves;

 

   

technological advances affecting energy consumption, including development and exploitation of alternative fuels or energy sources;

 

   

laws and regulations relating to environmental or energy security matters, including those purporting to address global climate change;

 

   

domestic and foreign tax policy; and

 

    advances in exploration and development technology.

An increase in commodity demand and prices will not necessarily result in an immediate increase in offshore drilling activity since Diamond Offshore’s customers’ project development times, reserve replacement needs, expectations of future commodity demand, prices and supply of available competing rigs all combine to affect demand for its rigs.

 

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Diamond Offshore’s business depends on the level of activity in the oil and gas industry, which has been cyclical and is significantly affected by many factors outside of its control.

Demand for Diamond Offshore’s drilling services depends upon the level of offshore oil and gas exploration, development and production in markets worldwide, and those activities depend in large part on oil and gas prices, worldwide demand for oil and gas and a variety of political and economic factors. The level of offshore drilling activity may also be adversely affected if operators reduce or defer new investment in offshore projects, reduce or suspend their drilling budgets or reallocate their drilling budgets away from offshore drilling in favor of other priorities, such as shale or other land-based projects, which could reduce demand for Diamond Offshore’s rigs and newbuilds. As a result, Diamond Offshore’s business and the oil and gas industry in general are subject to cyclical fluctuations.

As a result of the cyclical fluctuations in the market, there have been periods of lower demand, excess rig supply and lower dayrates, followed by periods of higher demand, shorter rig supply and higher dayrates. Diamond Offshore cannot predict the timing or duration of such fluctuations. Periods of lower demand or excess rig supply intensify the competition in the industry and often result in periods of lower utilization and lower dayrates. During these periods, Diamond Offshore’s rigs may not obtain contracts for future work and may be idle for long periods of time or may be able to obtain work only under contracts with lower dayrates or less favorable terms. Additionally, prolonged periods of low utilization and dayrates could also result in the recognition of impairment charges on certain of Diamond Offshore’s drilling rigs if future cash flow estimates, based upon information available to management at the time, indicate that the carrying value of these rigs may not be recoverable.

Diamond Offshore may not be able to renew or replace expiring contracts for its rigs.

Diamond Offshore has a number of customer contracts that will expire in 2015 and 2016. Diamond Offshore’s ability to renew or replace expiring contracts or obtain new contracts, and the terms of any such contracts, will depend on various factors, including market conditions and the specific needs of its customers. Given the highly competitive and historically cyclical nature of the industry, Diamond Offshore may be required to renew or replace expiring contracts or obtain new contracts at dayrates that are below, and potentially substantially below, existing dayrates, or that have terms that are less favorable than existing contracts or it may be unable to secure contracts for these rigs.

Diamond Offshore can provide no assurance that its drilling contracts will not be terminated early or that its current backlog of contract drilling revenue will be ultimately realized.

Generally, Diamond Offshore’s customers may terminate their term drilling contracts under certain circumstances, such as if the drilling rig is destroyed or lost, if Diamond Offshore suspends drilling operations for a specified period of time as a result of a breakdown of major equipment, excessive downtime for repairs, failure to meet minimum performance criteria or, in some cases, due to other events beyond the control of either party. In addition, some of Diamond Offshore’s drilling contracts permit the customer to terminate the contract after specified notice periods often by tendering contractually specified termination amounts, which may not fully compensate Diamond Offshore for the loss of the contract. In some cases, because of depressed market conditions or commodity prices, restricted credit markets, economic downturns, changes in priorities or strategy or other factors beyond Diamond Offshore’s control, a customer may no longer want or need a rig that is currently under contract or may be able to obtain a comparable rig at a lower dayrate. For these reasons, customers may seek to renegotiate the terms of Diamond Offshore’s existing drilling contracts, terminate their contracts without justification or repudiate or otherwise fail to perform their obligations under the contracts. When a customer terminates a contract prior to the contract’s scheduled expiration, Diamond Offshore’s contract backlog is adversely impacted, and it might not recover any compensation for the termination or any recovery Diamond Offshore might obtain may not fully compensate it for the loss of the contract. In any case, the early termination of a contract may result in Diamond Offshore’s rig being idle for an extended period of time. Each of these results could have a material adverse effect on Diamond Offshore’s business. In addition, if a customer cancels a contract or if Diamond Offshore elects to terminate a contract due to the customer’s nonperformance and in either case Diamond Offshore is unable to secure a new contract on a timely basis and on substantially similar terms, or if a contract is disputed or suspended for an extended period of time or if a contract is renegotiated, it could materially and adversely affect Diamond Offshore’s business.

 

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Generally, Diamond Offshore’s contract backlog only includes future revenues under firm commitments; however, from time to time, Diamond Offshore may report anticipated commitments for which definitive agreements have not yet been, but are expected to be, executed. Diamond Offshore can provide no assurance in such cases that it will be able to ultimately execute a definitive agreement. In addition, for the reasons described above, Diamond Offshore can provide no assurance that its customers will be willing or able to fulfill their contractual commitments. Diamond Offshore’s inability to perform under its contractual obligations or to execute definitive agreements, or its customers’ inability or unwillingness to fulfill their contractual commitments to Diamond Offshore, may have a material adverse effect on Diamond Offshore’s business.

Diamond Offshore’s industry is highly competitive, with oversupply and intense price competition.

The offshore contract drilling industry is highly competitive with numerous industry participants. Some of Diamond Offshore’s competitors may be larger companies, have larger fleets and have greater financial or other resources than it does. The drilling industry has experienced consolidation in the past and may experience additional consolidation, which could create additional large competitors. Drilling contracts are traditionally awarded on a competitive bid basis. Price is typically the primary factor in determining which qualified contractor is awarded a job; however, rig availability and location, a drilling contractor’s safety record and the quality and technical capability of service and equipment may also be considered.

Recent new rig construction and upgrades of existing drilling rigs, as well as established rigs coming off contract during 2014, have contributed to the current decline in rig utilization, intensifying price competition. Additional newbuild rigs entering the market are expected to further negatively impact rig utilization and intensify price competition as scheduled delivery dates occur.

In Brazil, Petrobras has announced plans to construct locally 29 new ultra-deepwater drilling rigs to be delivered beginning in 2015. These new drilling rigs, if built, would increase rig supply and could intensify price competition in Brazil as well as other markets as they are placed in service, would compete with, and could displace, both Diamond Offshore’s deepwater and ultra-deepwater floaters coming off contract as well as its newbuilds coming to market and could materially adversely affect utilization rates, particularly in Brazil.

Diamond Offshore provides offshore drilling services to a customer base that includes major and independent oil and gas companies and government-owned oil companies. During 2014, one of Diamond Offshore’s customers in Brazil, Petrobras, and Diamond Offshore’s five largest customers in the aggregate accounted for 32% and 61%, of its annual total consolidated revenues. The loss of a significant customer could have a material adverse impact on Diamond Offshore’s financial results. In addition, if a significant customer experiences liquidity constraints or other financial difficulties, it could materially adversely affect utilization rates in the affected market and also displace demand for Diamond Offshore’s other drilling rigs and newbuilds as the resulting excess supply enters the market. While it is normal for Diamond Offshore’s customer base to change over time as work programs are completed, the loss of or a significant reduction in the number of rigs contracted with any major customer may have a material adverse effect on Diamond Offshore’s future business.

The terms of Diamond Offshore’s drilling contracts may limit its ability to attain profitability in a declining market or to benefit from increasing dayrates in an improving market.

The duration of offshore drilling contracts is generally determined by customer requirements and, to a lesser extent, the respective management strategies of the offshore drilling contractors. In periods of decreasing demand for offshore rigs, drilling contractors may prefer longer term contracts to preserve dayrates at existing levels and ensure utilization, while customers may prefer shorter contracts that allow them to more quickly obtain the benefit of declining dayrates. Moreover, drilling contractors may accept lower dayrates in a declining market in order to obtain longer term contracts and add backlog. Conversely, in periods of rising demand for offshore rigs, contractors may prefer shorter contracts that allow them to more quickly profit from increasing dayrates, while customers with reasonably definite drilling programs may prefer longer term contracts to maintain dayrate prices at a consistent level. Diamond Offshore may be exposed to decreasing dayrates if any of its rigs are working under short term contracts during a declining market. Likewise, if any of its rigs are committed under long term contracts during an improving market, Diamond Offshore may be unable to enjoy the benefit of rising dayrates for the duration of those

 

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contracts. Exposure to falling dayrates in a declining market or the inability to fully benefit from increasing dayrates in an improving market through shorter term contracts may limit Diamond Offshore’s profitability.

Diamond Offshore may enter into drilling contracts that expose it to greater risks than it normally assumes.

From time to time, Diamond Offshore may enter into drilling contracts with national oil companies, government-controlled entities or others that expose it to greater risks than it normally assumes, such as exposure to greater environmental or other liability and more onerous termination provisions giving the customer a right to terminate without cause or upon little or no notice. Upon termination, these contracts may not result in a payment to Diamond Offshore, or if a termination payment is required, it may not fully compensate Diamond Offshore for the loss of a contract. In addition, the early termination of a contract may result in a rig being idle for an extended period of time, which could adversely affect Diamond Offshore’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. While Diamond Offshore believes that the financial terms of these contracts and its operating safeguards in place may partially mitigate these risks, it can provide no assurance that the increased risk exposure will not have a material negative impact on future operations or financial results.

Contracts for Diamond Offshore’s drilling rigs are generally fixed dayrate contracts, and increases in Diamond Offshore’s operating costs could adversely affect the profitability on those contracts.

Diamond Offshore’s contracts for its drilling rigs generally provide for the payment of a fixed dayrate per rig operating day, although some contracts do provide for a limited escalation in dayrate due to increased operating costs it incurs on the project. Many of Diamond Offshore’s operating costs, such as labor costs, are unpredictable and fluctuate based on events beyond its control. In addition, equipment repair and maintenance expenses fluctuate depending on the type of activity the rig is performing, the age and condition of the equipment and general market factors impacting relevant parts, components and services. The gross margin that Diamond Offshore realizes on these fixed dayrate contracts will fluctuate based on variations in its operating costs over the terms of the contracts. In addition, for contracts with dayrate escalation clauses, Diamond Offshore may not be able to fully recover increased or unforeseen costs from its customers. Diamond Offshore’s inability to recover these increased or unforeseen costs from its customers could materially and adversely affect its business.

Rig conversions, upgrades or newbuilds may be subject to delays and cost overruns.

From time to time, Diamond Offshore adds new capacity through conversions or upgrades to existing rigs or through new construction, such as its ultra-deepwater drillship, Ocean BlackLion, and the harsh environment, ultra-deepwater semisubmersible rig, Ocean GreatWhite, both currently under construction. Projects of this type are subject to risks of delay or cost overruns inherent in any large construction project resulting from numerous factors, including the following:

 

   

shortages of equipment, materials or skilled labor;

 

   

work stoppages;

 

   

unscheduled delays in the delivery of ordered materials and equipment;

 

   

unanticipated cost increases or change orders;

 

   

weather interferences or storm damage;

 

   

difficulties in obtaining necessary permits or in meeting permit conditions;

 

   

design and engineering problems;

 

   

disputes with shipyards or suppliers;

 

   

availability of suppliers to recertify equipment for enhanced regulations;

 

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customer acceptance delays;

 

   

shipyard failures or unavailability; and

 

   

failure or delay of third party service providers, civil unrest and labor disputes.

Failure to complete a rig upgrade or new construction on time, or failure to complete a rig conversion or new construction in accordance with its design specifications may, in some circumstances, result in the delay, renegotiation or cancellation of a drilling contract, resulting in a loss of contract drilling backlog and revenue to Diamond Offshore. If a drilling contract is terminated under these circumstances, Diamond Offshore may not be able to secure a replacement contract, or if it does secure a replacement contract, it may not contain equally favorable terms.

Diamond Offshore’s business involves numerous operating hazards which could expose it to significant losses and significant damage claims. Diamond Offshore is not fully insured against all of these risks and its contractual indemnity provisions may not fully protect Diamond Offshore.

Diamond Offshore’s operations are subject to the significant hazards inherent in drilling for oil and gas offshore, such as blowouts, reservoir damage, loss of production, loss of well control, unstable or faulty sea floor conditions, fires and natural disasters such as hurricanes. The occurrence of any of these types of events could result in the suspension of drilling operations, damage to or destruction of the equipment involved and injury or death to rig personnel, damage to producing or potentially productive oil and gas formations, and oil spillage, oil leaks, well blowouts and extensive uncontrolled fires, any of which could cause significant environmental damage. In addition, offshore drilling operations are subject to marine hazards, including capsizing, grounding, collision and loss or damage from severe weather. Operations also may be suspended because of machinery breakdowns, abnormal drilling conditions, failure of suppliers or subcontractors to perform or supply goods or services or personnel shortages.

Diamond Offshore’s drilling contracts with its customers provide for varying levels of indemnity and allocation of liabilities between its customers and Diamond Offshore with respect to the hazards and risks inherent in, and damages or losses arising out of, its operations, and Diamond Offshore may not be fully protected. Diamond Offshore’s contracts with its customers generally provide that Diamond Offshore and its customers each assume liability for their respective personnel and property. Diamond Offshore’s contracts also generally provide that its customers assume most of the responsibility for and indemnify Diamond Offshore against loss, damage or other liability resulting from, among other hazards and risks, pollution originating from the well and subsurface damage or loss, while Diamond Offshore typically retains responsibility for and indemnifies its customers against pollution originating from the rig. However, in certain drilling contracts Diamond Offshore may not be fully indemnified by its customers for damage to their property and/or the property of their other contractors. In certain contracts Diamond Offshore may assume liability for losses or damages (including punitive damages) resulting from pollution or contamination caused by negligent or willful acts of commission or omission by Diamond Offshore, its suppliers and/or subcontractors, generally subject to negotiated caps on a per occurrence basis and/or on an aggregate basis for the term of the contract. In some cases, suppliers or subcontractors who provide equipment or services to Diamond Offshore may seek to limit their liability resulting from pollution or contamination. Diamond Offshore’s contracts are individually negotiated, and the levels of indemnity and allocation of liabilities in them can vary from contract to contract depending on market conditions, particular customer requirements and other factors existing at the time a contract is negotiated.

Additionally, the enforceability of indemnification provisions in Diamond Offshore’s contracts may be limited or prohibited by applicable law or may not be enforced by courts having jurisdiction, and Diamond Offshore could be held liable for substantial losses or damages and for fines and penalties imposed by regulatory authorities. The indemnification provisions of Diamond Offshore’s contracts may be subject to differing interpretations, and the laws or courts of certain jurisdictions may enforce such provisions while other laws or courts may find them to be unenforceable, void or limited by public policy considerations, including when the cause of the underlying loss or damage is Diamond Offshore’s gross negligence or willful misconduct, when punitive damages are attributable to Diamond Offshore or when fines or penalties are imposed directly against Diamond Offshore. The law with respect to the enforceability of indemnities varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and is unsettled under certain laws that are applicable to Diamond Offshore’s contracts. Current or future litigation in particular jurisdictions, whether or not Diamond Offshore is a party, may impact the interpretation and enforceability of indemnification provisions in its

 

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contracts. There can be no assurance that Diamond Offshore’s contracts with its customers, suppliers and subcontractors will fully protect it against all hazards and risks inherent in its operations. There can also be no assurance that those parties with contractual obligations to indemnify Diamond Offshore will be financially able to do so or will otherwise honor their contractual obligations.

Diamond Offshore maintains liability insurance, which includes coverage for environmental damage; however, because of contractual provisions and policy limits, Diamond Offshore’s insurance coverage may not adequately cover its losses and claim costs. In addition, certain risks such as pollution, reservoir damage and environmental risks are generally not fully insurable. Also, Diamond Offshore does not typically purchase loss-of-hire insurance to cover lost revenues when a rig is unable to work. Moreover, insurance costs across the industry have increased following the Macondo incident and, in the future, certain insurance coverage may become more costly and less available or not available at all.

Diamond Offshore believes that the policy limit under its marine liability insurance is within the range that is customary for companies of its size in the offshore drilling industry and is appropriate for its business. However, if an accident or other event occurs that exceeds Diamond Offshore’s coverage limits or is not an insurable event under its insurance policies, or is not fully covered by contractual indemnity, it could have a material adverse effect on Diamond Offshore’s business. There can be no assurance that Diamond Offshore will continue to carry the insurance it currently maintains, that its insurance will cover all types of losses or that Diamond Offshore will be able to maintain adequate insurance in the future at rates it considers to be reasonable or that Diamond Offshore will be able to obtain insurance against some risks.

Diamond Offshore has elected to self-insure for physical damage to rigs and equipment caused by named windstorms in the GOM.

Because the amount of insurance coverage available to Diamond Offshore has been limited, and the cost for such coverage is substantial, Diamond Offshore self-insures for physical damage to rigs and equipment caused by named windstorms in the GOM. This results in a higher risk of losses, which could be material, that are not covered by third party insurance contracts.

In addition, certain of Diamond Offshore’s shore-based facilities are located in geographic regions that are susceptible to damage or disruption from hurricanes and other weather events. Future hurricanes or similar natural disasters that impact Diamond Offshore’s facilities, its personnel located at those facilities or its ongoing operations may negatively affect its business for those periods. These negative effects may include reduced or lost sales and revenues; costs associated with interruption in operations and with resuming operations; reduced demand for Diamond Offshore’s services from customers that were similarly affected by these events; lost market share; late deliveries; uninsured property losses; inadequate business interruption insurance; employee evacuations; and an inability to retain necessary staff.

Diamond Offshore may be required to accrue additional tax liability on certain of its foreign earnings.

Certain of Diamond Offshore’s international rigs are owned and operated, directly or indirectly, by Diamond Offshore International Limited (“DOIL”), a Cayman Islands subsidiary that it owns. It is Diamond Offshore’s intention to indefinitely reinvest future earnings of DOIL and its foreign subsidiaries to finance foreign activities. Diamond Offshore does not expect to provide for U.S. taxes on any future earnings generated by DOIL, except to the extent that these earnings are immediately subjected to U.S. federal income tax. Should a future distribution be made from any unremitted earnings of this subsidiary, Diamond Offshore may be required to record additional U.S. income taxes.

Fluctuations in exchange rates and nonconvertibility of currencies could result in losses.

Due to Diamond Offshore’s international operations, Diamond Offshore has experienced currency exchange losses where revenues are received and expenses are paid in nonconvertible currencies or where it does not effectively hedge an exposure to a foreign currency. Diamond Offshore may also incur losses as a result of an inability to collect revenues because of a shortage of convertible currency available to the country of operation, controls over currency exchange or controls over the repatriation of income or capital. Diamond Offshore can provide no

 

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assurance that financial hedging arrangements will effectively hedge any foreign currency fluctuation losses that may arise.

Significant portions of Diamond Offshore’s operations are conducted outside the United States and involve additional risks not associated with United States domestic operations.

Diamond Offshore’s operations outside the United States accounted for approximately 85%, 89% and 94% of its total consolidated revenues for 2014, 2013 and 2012 and include operations in South America, Australia and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, East and West Africa, the Mediterranean and Mexico. Because Diamond Offshore operates in various regions throughout the world, it is exposed to risks of war, political disruption, civil disturbance, acts of terrorism, political corruption, possible economic and legal sanctions (such as possible restrictions against countries that the U.S. government may consider to be state sponsors of terrorism) and changes in global trade policies. Diamond Offshore may not have insurance coverage for these risks, or it may not be able to obtain adequate insurance coverage for such events at reasonable rates. Diamond Offshore’s operations may become restricted, disrupted or prohibited in any country in which any of the foregoing risks occur. In particular, the occurrence of any of these risks or any of the following events could materially and adversely impact Diamond Offshore’s business:

 

   

political and economic instability;

 

   

piracy, terrorism or other assaults on property or personnel;

 

   

kidnapping of personnel;

 

   

seizure, expropriation, nationalization, deprivation, malicious damage or other loss of possession or use of property or equipment;

 

   

renegotiation or nullification of existing contracts;

 

   

disputes and legal proceedings in international jurisdictions;

 

   

changing social, political and economic conditions;

 

   

enactment of additional or stricter U.S. government or international sanctions;

 

   

imposition of wage and price controls, trade barriers or import-export quotas;

 

   

restrictive foreign and domestic monetary policies;

 

   

the inability to repatriate income or capital;

 

   

difficulties in collecting accounts receivable and longer collection periods;

 

   

fluctuations in currency exchange rates and restrictions on currency exchange;

 

   

regulatory or financial requirements to comply with foreign bureaucratic actions;

 

   

restriction or disruption of business activities;

 

   

limitation of access to markets for periods of time;

 

   

travel limitations or operational problems caused by public health threats;

 

   

difficulties in supplying, repairing or replacing equipment or transporting personnel in remote locations;

 

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difficulties in obtaining visas or work permits for employees on a timely basis; and

 

   

changing taxation policies and confiscatory or discriminatory taxation.

Diamond Offshore is also subject to the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control and other U.S. laws and regulations governing its international operations in addition to worldwide anti-bribery laws. In addition, international contract drilling operations are subject to various laws and regulations in countries in which Diamond Offshore operates, including laws and regulations relating to:

 

   

the equipping and operation of drilling rigs;

 

   

import-export quotas or other trade barriers;

 

   

repatriation of foreign earnings or capital;

 

   

oil and gas exploration and development;

 

   

local content requirements;

 

   

taxation of offshore earnings and earnings of expatriate personnel; and

 

   

use and compensation of local employees and suppliers by foreign contractors.

Some foreign governments favor or effectively require the awarding of drilling contracts to local contractors, require use of a local agent or require foreign contractors to employ citizens of, or purchase supplies from, a particular jurisdiction. These practices may adversely affect Diamond Offshore’s ability to compete in those regions. It is difficult to predict what governmental regulations may be enacted in the future that could adversely affect the international offshore drilling industry. The actions of foreign governments may materially and adversely affect Diamond Offshore’s ability to compete.

In addition, the shipment of goods, including the movement of a drilling rig across international borders, subjects Diamond Offshore to extensive trade laws and regulations. Diamond Offshore’s import activities are governed by unique customs laws and regulations that differ in each of the countries in which Diamond Offshore operates and often impose record keeping and reporting obligations. The laws and regulations concerning import/export activity and record keeping and reporting requirements are complex and change frequently. These laws and regulations may be enacted, amended, enforced and/or interpreted in a manner that could materially and adversely impact Diamond Offshore’s operations. Shipments can be delayed and denied export or entry for a variety of reasons, some of which may be outside of Diamond Offshore’s control. Shipping delays or denials could cause unscheduled downtime for rigs. Failure to comply with these laws and regulations could result in criminal and civil penalties, economic sanctions, seizure of shipments and/or the contractual withholding of monies owed to Diamond Offshore, among other things.

Diamond Offshore relies on third-party suppliers, manufacturers and service providers to secure equipment, components and parts used in rig operations, conversions, upgrades and construction.

Diamond Offshore’s reliance on third-party suppliers, manufacturers and service providers to provide equipment and services exposes it to volatility in the quality, price and availability of such items. Certain components, parts and equipment that are used in Diamond Offshore’s operations may be available only from a small number of suppliers, manufacturers or service providers. The failure of one or more third-party suppliers, manufacturers or service providers to provide equipment, components, parts or services, whether due to capacity constraints, production or delivery disruptions, price increases, quality control issues, recalls or other decreased availability of parts and equipment, is beyond Diamond Offshore’s control and could materially disrupt its operations or result in the delay, renegotiation or cancellation of drilling contracts, thereby causing a loss of contract drilling backlog and/or revenue, as well as an increase in operating costs.

 

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Additionally, Diamond Offshore’s suppliers, manufacturers and service providers could be negatively impacted by current industry conditions or global economic conditions. If certain of Diamond Offshore’s suppliers, manufacturers or service providers were to experience significant cash flow issues, become insolvent or otherwise curtail or discontinue their business as a result of such conditions, it could result in a reduction or interruption in supplies or equipment available to Diamond Offshore and/or a significant increase in the price of such supplies and equipment, which could adversely impact Diamond Offshore’s business.

Risks Related to Us and Our Subsidiary, Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, LP

Boardwalk Pipeline’s actual construction and development costs could exceed its forecast, and its cash flow from construction and development projects may not be immediate, which may limit its ability to maintain or increase cash distributions.

Boardwalk Pipeline is engaged in multiple significant construction projects involving existing and new assets for which it has expended or will expend significant capital and it expects to engage in additional growth projects of this type. The construction of new assets involves regulatory, environmental, legal, political, materials and labor cost, operational and other risks that are difficult to predict and beyond Boardwalk Pipeline’s control. Any of these projects may not be completed on time or at all, may be impacted by significant cost overruns or may be materially changed prior to completion as a result of developments or circumstances that Boardwalk Pipeline is not aware of when it commits to the project, including the ability of any foundation shipper to provide adequate credit support or to otherwise perform their obligations under any precedent agreements. Any of these factors could result in material unexpected costs or have a material adverse effect on Boardwalk Pipeline’s ability to realize the anticipated benefits from its growth projects.

Boardwalk Pipeline’s revenues and cash flows may not increase immediately on its expenditure of funds on a particular project. For example, if Boardwalk Pipeline builds a new pipeline or expands an existing facility, the design, construction and development may occur over an extended period of time and Boardwalk Pipeline may not receive any increase in revenue or cash flow from that project until after it is placed in service and customers begin using the new facilities.

Boardwalk Pipeline may not be successful in executing its strategy to grow and diversify its business.

Boardwalk Pipeline relies primarily on the revenues generated from its long-haul natural gas transportation and storage services. As a result, negative developments in these services have significantly greater impact on its financial condition and results of operations than if Boardwalk Pipeline maintained more diverse assets. Boardwalk Pipeline is pursuing a strategy of growing and diversifying its business through acquisition and development of assets in complementary areas of the midstream energy sector, such as liquids transportation and storage assets, among others. Boardwalk Pipeline may not be successful in acquiring or developing such assets or may do so on terms that ultimately are not profitable.

Boardwalk Pipeline’s future growth depends on its ability to grow and diversify its business by, among other things, investing in assets through acquisitions or joint ventures and organic growth projects. Boardwalk Pipeline’s ability to grow, diversify and increase distributable cash flows will depend, in part, on its ability to close and execute on accretive acquisitions and projects. Any such transaction involves potential risks that may include, among other things:

 

   

the diversion of management’s and employees’ attention from other business concerns;

 

   

inaccurate assumptions about volume, revenues and project costs, including potential synergies;

 

   

a decrease in Boardwalk Pipeline’s liquidity as a result of it using available cash or borrowing capacity to finance the acquisition or project;

 

   

a significant increase in its interest expense or financial leverage if it incurs additional debt to finance the acquisition or project;

 

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inaccurate assumptions about the overall costs of equity or debt;

 

   

an inability to hire, train or retain qualified personnel to manage and operate the acquired business and assets or the developed assets;

 

   

unforeseen difficulties operating in new product areas or new geographic areas; and

 

   

changes in regulatory requirements or delays of regulatory approvals.

Additionally, acquisitions contain the following risks:

 

   

an inability to integrate successfully the businesses Boardwalk Pipeline acquires;

 

   

the assumption of unknown liabilities for which it is not indemnified, for which its indemnity is inadequate or for which its insurance policies may exclude from coverage;

 

   

limitations on rights to indemnity from the seller; and

 

   

customer or key employee losses of an acquired business.

There is no certainty that Boardwalk Pipeline will be able to complete these acquisitions or projects on schedule, on budget or at all.

Boardwalk Pipeline may not continue making distributions to unitholders at the current distribution rate or at all.

The amount of cash Boardwalk Pipeline has available to distribute to its unitholders principally depends upon the amount of cash it generates from its operations and financing activities and the amount of cash it requires, or determines to use, for other purposes, all of which fluctuate from quarter to quarter based on a number of factors, many of which are beyond the control of Boardwalk Pipeline. Some of the factors that influence the amount of cash Boardwalk Pipeline has available for distribution in any quarter include:

 

   

fluctuations in cash generated by its operations, including as a result of the seasonality of its business, customer payment issues, general business conditions and market conditions, which impact, for example, contract renewals, pricing, basis spreads, time period price spreads, market rates, and supply and demand for natural gas and Boardwalk Pipeline’s services;

 

   

the level of capital expenditures Boardwalk Pipeline makes or anticipates making, including for expansion, growth projects and acquisitions;

 

   

the amount of cash necessary to meet current or anticipated debt service requirements and other liabilities;

 

   

fluctuations in working capital needs;

 

   

the ability to borrow funds and/or access capital markets on acceptable terms to fund operations or capital expenditures, including acquisitions; and restrictions contained in its debt agreements; and

 

   

the cost and form of payment for pending or anticipated acquisitions and growth or expansion projects and the timing and commercial success of any such initiatives.

There is no guarantee that unitholders will receive quarterly distributions from Boardwalk Pipeline. Distributions are determined each quarter by the board of directors of Boardwalk Pipeline’s general partner based on the board’s consideration of Boardwalk Pipeline’s financial position, earnings, cash flow, current and future business needs and other relevant factors at that time. Boardwalk Pipeline may reduce or eliminate distributions at any time it determines that its cash reserves are insufficient or are otherwise required to fund current or anticipated future operations, capital expenditures, acquisitions, growth or expansion projects, debt repayment or other business needs.

 

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Boardwalk Pipeline may not be able to replace expiring gas transportation contracts at attractive rates or on a long term basis and may not be able to sell short term services at attractive rates or at all due to narrower basis differentials which adversely affect the value of its transportation services.

Transportation rates Boardwalk Pipeline is able to charge customers are heavily influenced by longer term trends in, for example, the amount and geographical location of natural gas production and demand for gas by end-users such as power plants, petrochemical facilities and liquefied natural gas export facilities. As a result of changes in longer term trends such as the development of gas production from the Marcellus and Utica areas located in the Northeastern U.S. and changes to related pipeline infrastructure, basis differentials corresponding to traditional flow patterns on Boardwalk Pipeline’s pipeline systems (generally south to north and west to east) have narrowed significantly in recent years, reducing the transportation rates and adversely impacting other contract terms Boardwalk Pipeline can negotiate with its customers for available transportation capacity and for contracts scheduled for renewal for its firm transportation services. These conditions have, and Boardwalk Pipeline expects will continue to, materially adversely affect its revenues, earnings and distributable cash flows.

Each year, a portion of Boardwalk Pipeline’s firm natural gas transportation contracts expire and need to be renewed or replaced. For the reasons discussed above and elsewhere in this Report, in recent periods Boardwalk Pipeline has renewed many expiring contracts at lower rates and for shorter terms than in the past, which has materially adversely impacted its transportation revenues. Boardwalk Pipeline expects this trend to continue and therefore may not be able to sell its available capacity, extend expiring contracts with existing customers or obtain replacement contracts at attractive rates or for the same term as the expiring contracts, which would continue to adversely affect its business.

In 2008 and 2009, Boardwalk Pipeline placed into service a number of large new pipelines and expansions of its system, including its East Texas Pipeline, Southeast Expansion, Gulf Crossing Pipeline and Fayetteville and Greenville Laterals. These projects were supported by firm transportation agreements with anchor shippers, typically having a term of ten years and pricing and other terms negotiated based on then current market conditions, which included wider basis spreads and, correspondingly, higher transportation rates than those prevailing in the current market. As a result, in 2018 and 2019, Boardwalk Pipeline will have significantly more transportation contract expirations than other years. Boardwalk Pipeline cannot predict what market conditions will prevail at the time such contracts expire and what pricing and other terms may be available in the marketplace for renewal or replacement of such contracts. If Boardwalk Pipeline is unable to renew or replace these and other expiring contracts when they expire, or if the terms of any such renewal or replacement contracts are not as favorable as the expiring agreements, Boardwalk Pipeline’s revenues and cash flows could be materially adversely affected. These market factors and conditions could impact Boardwalk Pipeline on a long term basis.

Boardwalk Pipeline may not be able to replace expiring gas storage contracts at attractive rates or on a long term basis and may not be able to sell short term services at attractive rates or at all due to narrowing of price spreads between time periods and reduced volatility which adversely affects Boardwalk Pipeline’s storage services.

Boardwalk Pipeline owns and operates substantial natural gas storage facilities. The market for Boardwalk Pipeline’s storage and parking and lending (“PAL”) services is impacted by the factors and market conditions discussed above for Boardwalk Pipeline’s transportation services, and is also impacted by natural gas price differentials between time periods, such as winter to summer (time period price spreads), and the volatility in time period price spreads. Market conditions have caused time period price spreads to narrow considerably and price volatility of natural gas to decline significantly, reducing the rates Boardwalk Pipeline can charge for its storage and PAL services and adversely impacting the value of these services. These market conditions together with regulatory changes in the financial services industry have also caused a number of gas marketers, which have traditionally been large consumers of Boardwalk Pipeline’s storage and PAL services, to exit the market, further impacting the market for those services. These market factors and conditions could impact Boardwalk Pipeline on a long term basis.

 

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Boardwalk Pipeline is exposed to credit risk relating to nonperformance by its customers.

Credit risk relates to the risk of loss resulting from the nonperformance by a customer of its contractual obligations. Credit risk exists in relation to Boardwalk Pipeline’s recently announced growth projects, certain of which require the foundation shippers to provide credit support as construction progresses. Further, in 2014, approximately 51% of Boardwalk Pipeline’s revenues were generated from contracts with natural gas producers, a significant number of which are integrated oil companies. Several of Boardwalk Pipeline’s growth projects are supported by contracts with oil companies. In the second half of 2014, oil prices declined significantly and the outlook for oil prices indicated that prices could remain depressed for the foreseeable future. Should the price of oil remain at its current level for a sustained period of time, Boardwalk Pipeline could be exposed to increased credit risk associated with the producer customer group.

Boardwalk Pipeline’s exposure also relates to receivables for services provided, future performance under firm agreements and volumes of gas owed by customers for imbalances or gas loaned by Boardwalk Pipeline to them under certain NNS and PAL services. If any of Boardwalk Pipeline’s significant customers have credit or financial problems which result in a delay or failure to pay for services provided by Boardwalk Pipeline or contracted for with Boardwalk Pipeline, or to post the required credit support for construction efforts, or to repay the gas they owe Boardwalk Pipeline, it could have a material adverse effect on Boardwalk Pipeline’s business. In addition, Boardwalk Pipeline’s FERC gas tariffs only allow it to require limited credit support in the event that its transportation customers are unable to pay for its services. As contracts expire, the failure of any of its customers could also result in the non-renewal of contracted capacity.

New or amended pipeline safety laws and regulations requiring substantial changes to existing integrity management programs or safety technologies could subject Boardwalk Pipeline to increased capital and operating costs and require it to use more comprehensive and stringent safety controls.

Boardwalk Pipeline’s pipelines are subject to regulation by PHMSA of the DOT under the NGPSA with respect to natural gas and the HLPSA with respect to NGLs, both as amended. The NGPSA and HLPSA govern the design, installation, testing, construction, operation, replacement and management of natural gas and NGLs pipeline facilities. These amendments have resulted in the adoption of rules, through PHMSA, that require transportation pipeline operators to implement integrity management programs, including more frequent inspections, correction of identified anomalies and other measures to ensure pipeline safety in high consequence areas, such as high population areas, areas unusually sensitive to environmental damage and commercially navigable waterways. These regulations have resulted in an overall increase in maintenance costs. PHMSA may develop more stringent regulations applicable to integrity management programs and other aspects of Boardwalk Pipeline’s operations, which may be hastened by recent highly-publicized incidents on certain pipelines in the U.S. Boardwalk Pipeline could incur significant additional costs if new or more stringent pipeline safety requirements are implemented.

The 2011 Act was enacted and signed into law in early 2012. Under the 2011 Act, maximum civil penalties for certain violations have been increased to $200,000 per violation per day, and from a total cap of $1 million to $2 million. In addition, the 2011 Act reauthorized the federal pipeline safety programs of PHMSA through September 30, 2015, and directs the Secretary of Transportation to undertake a number of reviews, studies and reports, some of which may result in more stringent safety controls or inspections or additional natural gas and hazardous liquids pipeline safety rulemaking. A number of the provisions of the 2011 Act have the potential to cause owners and operators of pipeline facilities to incur significant capital expenditures and/or operating costs.

Further, Boardwalk Pipeline has entered into firm transportation contracts with shippers which utilize the design capacity of certain of its pipeline assets, assuming that Boardwalk Pipeline operates those pipeline assets at higher than normal operating pressures of up to 0.80 of the pipeline’s SMYS. Boardwalk Pipeline has authority from PHMSA to operate those pipeline assets at such higher pressures, however PHMSA retains discretion to withdraw or modify this authority. If PHMSA were to withdraw or materially modify such authority, Boardwalk Pipeline may not be able to transport all of its contracted quantities of natural gas on its pipeline assets and could incur significant additional costs to re-obtain such authority or to develop alternate ways to meet its contractual obligations.

 

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Boardwalk Pipeline’s natural gas transportation and storage operations are subject to extensive regulation by FERC, including rules and regulations related to the rates it can charge for its services and its ability to construct or abandon facilities. FERC’s rate-making policies could limit its ability to recover the full cost of operating its pipelines, including earning a reasonable return.

Boardwalk Pipeline’s natural gas transportation and storage operations are subject to extensive regulation by FERC, including the types and terms of services it may offer to customers, construction of new facilities, creation, modification or abandonment of services or facilities, recordkeeping and relationships with affiliated companies. FERC action in any of these areas could adversely affect Boardwalk Pipeline’s ability to compete for business, construct new facilities, offer new services or recover the full cost of operating its pipelines. This regulatory oversight can result in longer lead times to develop and complete any future project than competitors that are not subject to FERC’s regulations. FERC can also deny Boardwalk Pipeline the right to remove certain facilities from service.

FERC also regulates the rates Boardwalk Pipeline can charge for its natural gas transportation and storage operations. For Boardwalk Pipeline’s cost-based services, FERC establishes both the maximum and minimum rates it can charge. The basic elements that FERC considers are the costs of providing service, the volumes of gas being transported, the rate design, the allocation of costs between services, the capital structure and the rate of return a pipeline is permitted to earn. Boardwalk Pipeline may not be able to earn a return or recover all of its costs, including certain costs associated with pipeline integrity activities, through existing or future rates. In October of 2014, Boardwalk Pipeline’s Gulf South subsidiary filed a rate case with the FERC pursuant to Section 4 of the NGA (Docket No RP15-65) requesting, among other things, a reconfiguration of the transportation rate zones on its system and, in general, an increase in its tariff rates. The new tariff rates are expected to become effective May 1, 2015, subject to refund, which means that Gulf South will be responsible for refunds if the FERC later finds that its proposed rates are not just and reasonable. The rate case is in the initial stages and the ultimate outcome and impacts on Boardwalk Pipeline’s operating revenues and earnings for 2015 and beyond cannot be predicted at this time.

FERC can challenge the existing rates on any of Boardwalk Pipeline’s pipelines. Such a challenge against Boardwalk Pipeline could adversely affect its ability to charge rates that would cover future increases in its costs or even to continue to collect rates to maintain its current revenue levels that are designed to permit a reasonable opportunity to recover current costs and depreciation and earn a reasonable return.

If any of Boardwalk Pipeline’s pipelines under FERC jurisdiction were to file a rate case, such as Gulf South, or if they have to defend their rates in a proceeding commenced by FERC, Boardwalk Pipeline would be required, among other things, to establish that the inclusion of an income tax allowance in its cost of service is just and reasonable. Under current FERC policy, since it is a limited partnership and does not pay U.S. federal income taxes, this would require it to show that its unitholders (or their ultimate owners) are subject to federal income taxation. To support such a showing, Boardwalk Pipeline’s general partner may elect to require owners of its units to re-certify their status as being subject to U.S. federal income taxation on the income generated by Boardwalk Pipeline or may attempt to provide other evidence. Boardwalk Pipeline can provide no assurance that the evidence it might provide to FERC will be sufficient to establish that its unitholders (or their ultimate owners) are subject to U.S. federal income tax liability on the income generated by Boardwalk Pipeline’s jurisdictional pipelines. If Boardwalk Pipeline is unable to make such a showing, FERC could disallow a substantial portion of the income tax allowance included in the determination of the maximum rates that may be charged by its pipelines, which could result in a reduction of such maximum rates from current levels.

Changes in energy prices, including natural gas, oil and NGLs impact supply of and demand for those commodities, which impacts Boardwalk Pipeline’s business.

The prices of natural gas and NGLs fluctuate in response to changes in supply and demand, market uncertainty and a variety of additional factors, including:

 

   

worldwide economic conditions;

 

   

weather conditions, seasonal trends and hurricane disruptions;

 

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the relationship between the available supplies and the demand for natural gas and NGLs;

 

   

new supply sources;

 

   

the availability of adequate transportation capacity;

 

   

storage inventory levels;

 

   

the price and availability of oil and other forms of energy;

 

   

the effect of energy conservation measures;

 

   

new or amended laws and regulations, new regulations adopted by governmental authorities such as the DOT, PHMSA and the EPA, including, for example greenhouse gas legislation and taxation; and

 

   

the anticipated future prices of natural gas, oil and other commodities.

It is difficult to predict future changes in natural gas and NGL prices. However, the economic environment that has existed over the last several years generally indicates a bias toward continued downward pressure on natural gas prices. Sustained low natural gas prices could negatively impact producers, including those directly connected to Boardwalk Pipeline’s pipelines that have contracted for capacity with them.

Conversely, future increases in the price of natural gas could make alternative energy sources more competitive and reduce demand for natural gas. A reduced level of demand for natural gas could reduce the utilization of capacity on Boardwalk Pipeline’s systems, reduce the demand for its services and could result in the non-renewal of contracted capacity as contracts expire and affect its midstream businesses.

Boardwalk Pipeline depends on certain key customers for a significant portion of its revenues. The loss of any of these key customers could result in a decline in its revenues.

Boardwalk Pipeline relies on a limited number of customers for a significant portion of revenues. Its largest customer in terms of revenue, Devon Gas Services, LP, represented over 10% of its 2014 revenues. Boardwalk Pipeline’s top ten customers comprised approximately 44% of its revenues in 2014. Boardwalk Pipeline may be unable to negotiate extensions or replacements of contracts with key customers on favorable terms which could materially reduce its contracted transportation volumes and the rates it can charge for its services.

Risks Related to Us and Our Subsidiaries Generally

In addition to the specific risks and uncertainties faced by our subsidiaries, as discussed above, we and all of our subsidiaries face risks and uncertainties related to, among other things, terrorism, hurricanes and other natural disasters, competition, government regulation, dependence on key executives and employees, litigation, dependence on information technology and compliance with environmental laws.

Acts of terrorism could harm us and our subsidiaries.

Future terrorist attacks and the continued threat of terrorism in this country or abroad, as well as possible retaliatory military and other action by the United States and its allies, could have a significant impact on the assets and businesses of certain of our subsidiaries. CNA issues coverages that are exposed to risk of loss from a terrorism act. Terrorist acts or the threat of terrorism, including increased political, economic and financial market instability and volatility in the price of oil and gas, could affect the market for Diamond Offshore’s drilling services and Boardwalk Pipeline’s transportation, gathering and storage services. In addition, future terrorist attacks could lead to reductions in business travel and tourism which could harm Loews Hotels. While our subsidiaries take steps that they believe are appropriate to secure their assets, there is no assurance that they can completely secure them against a terrorist attack or obtain adequate insurance coverage for terrorist acts at reasonable rates.

 

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Our subsidiaries are subject to extensive federal, state and local governmental regulations.

The businesses operated by our subsidiaries are impacted by current and potential federal, state and local governmental regulations which impose or might impose a variety of restrictions and compliance obligations on those companies. Governmental regulations can also change materially in ways that could adversely affect those companies. Risks faced by our subsidiaries related to governmental regulation include the following:

CNA.  The insurance industry is subject to comprehensive and detailed regulation and supervision. Most insurance regulations are designed to protect the interests of CNA’s policyholders and third party claimants rather than its investors. Each jurisdiction in which CNA does business has established supervisory agencies that regulate its business, generally at the state level. Any changes in federal regulation could also impose significant burdens on CNA. In addition, the Lloyd’s marketplace sets rules under which its members, including CNA’s Hardy syndicate operate. These rules and regulations include the following:

 

   

standards of solvency, including risk-based capital measurements;

 

   

restrictions on the nature, quality and concentration of investments;

 

   

restrictions on CNA’s ability to withdraw from unprofitable lines of insurance or unprofitable market areas;

 

   

the required use of certain methods of accounting and reporting;

 

   

the establishment of reserves for unearned premiums, losses and other purposes;

 

   

potential assessments for funds necessary to settle covered claims against impaired, insolvent or failed private or quasi-governmental insurers;

 

   

licensing of insurers and agents;

 

   

approval of policy forms;

 

   

limitations on the ability of CNA’s insurance subsidiaries to pay dividends to us; and

 

   

limitations on the ability to non-renew, cancel, increase rates or change terms and conditions in policies.

Regulatory powers also extend to premium rate regulations which require that rates not be excessive, inadequate or unfairly discriminatory. CNA may also be required by the jurisdictions in which it does business to provide coverage to persons who would not otherwise be considered eligible. Each jurisdiction dictates the types of insurance and the level of coverage that must be provided to such involuntary risks. CNA’s share of these involuntary risks is mandatory and is generally a function of its respective share of the voluntary market by line of insurance in each jurisdiction.

Diamond Offshore.  Certain countries are subject to restrictions, sanctions and embargoes imposed by the United States government or other governmental or international authorities. These restrictions, sanctions and embargoes prohibit or limit Diamond Offshore from participating in certain business activities in those countries. Diamond Offshore’s operations are also subject to numerous local, state and federal laws and regulations in the United States and in foreign jurisdictions concerning the containment and disposal of hazardous materials, the remediation of contaminated properties and the protection of the environment. The offshore drilling industry is dependent on demand for services from the oil and gas exploration industry and, accordingly, can be affected by changes in tax and other laws relating to the energy business generally. Diamond Offshore may be required to make significant expenditures for additional capital equipment or inspections and recertifications to comply with governmental laws and regulations. It is also possible that these laws and regulations may, in the future, add significantly to Diamond Offshore’s operating costs or result in a reduction in revenues associated with downtime required to install such equipment, or may otherwise significantly limit drilling activity.

 

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In addition, Diamond Offshore’s business is negatively impacted when it performs certain regulatory inspections, which Diamond Offshore refers to as a 5-year survey, or special survey, that are due every five years for each of its rigs. These special surveys are generally performed in a shipyard and require scheduled downtime, which can negatively impact operating revenue. Operating expenses increase as a result of these special surveys due to the cost to mobilize the rigs to a shipyard, inspection costs incurred and repair and maintenance costs. Repair and maintenance activities may result from the special survey or may have been previously planned to take place during this mandatory downtime. The number of rigs undergoing a 5-year survey will vary from year to year, as well as from quarter to quarter. Diamond Offshore’s business may also be negatively impacted by intermediate surveys, which are performed at interim periods between 5-year surveys. Intermediate surveys are generally less extensive in duration and scope than a 5-year survey. Although an intermediate survey normally does not require shipyard time, the survey may require some downtime for the rig. Diamond Offshore can provide no assurance as to the exact timing and/or duration of downtime associated with regulatory inspections, planned rig mobilizations and other shipyard projects.

In the aftermath of the 2010 Macondo well blowout and the subsequent investigation into the causes of the event, new rules were implemented for oil and gas operations in the GOM and in many of the international locations in which Diamond Offshore operates, including new standards for well design, casing and cementing and well control procedures, equipment inspections and certifications, as well as rules requiring operators to systematically identify risks and establish safeguards against those risks through a comprehensive safety and environmental management system (“SEMS”). New regulations may continue to be announced, including rules regarding drilling systems and equipment, such as blowout preventer and well control systems and lifesaving systems, as well as rules regarding employee training, engaging personnel in safety management and requiring third party audits of SEMS programs. Such new regulations could require modifications or enhancements to existing systems and equipment, or require new equipment, and could increase Diamond Offshore’s operating costs and cause downtime for its rigs if it is required to take any of them out of service between scheduled surveys or inspections, or if it is required to extend scheduled surveys or inspections, to meet any such new requirements. Diamond Offshore is not able to predict the likelihood, nature or extent of additional rulemaking, nor is it able to predict the future impact of these events on operations. Additional governmental regulations concerning licensing, taxation, equipment specifications, training requirements or other matters could increase the costs of Diamond Offshore’s operations, and enhanced permitting requirements, as well as escalating costs borne by its customers, could reduce exploration activity in the GOM and therefore demand for its services.

Governments in some countries are increasingly active in regulating and controlling the ownership of concessions, the exploration for oil and gas and other aspects of the oil and gas industry. The modification of existing laws or regulations or the adoption of new laws or regulations curtailing exploratory or developmental drilling for oil and gas for economic, environmental or other reasons could materially and adversely affect Diamond Offshore’s operations by limiting drilling opportunities.

Boardwalk Pipeline.  Boardwalk Pipeline’s natural gas transportation and storage operations are subject to extensive regulation by FERC and PHMSA of the DOT among other federal and state authorities. In addition to FERC rules and regulations related to the rates Boardwalk Pipeline can charge for its services, federal regulations extend to pipeline safety, operating terms and conditions of service, the types of services Boardwalk Pipeline may offer, construction or abandonment of facilities, accounting and record keeping, and relationships and transactions with affiliated companies. These regulations can adversely impact Boardwalk Pipeline’s ability to compete for business, construct new facilities, including by increasing the lead times to develop projects, offer new services, or recover the full cost of operating its pipelines.

Our subsidiaries face significant risks related to compliance with environmental laws.

Our subsidiaries have extensive obligations and financial exposure related to compliance with federal, state and local environmental laws, many of which have become increasingly stringent in recent years and may in some cases impose strict liability, which could be substantial, rendering a person liable for environmental damage without regard to negligence or fault on the part of that person. For example, Diamond Offshore could be liable for damages and costs incurred in connection with oil spills related to its operations, including for conduct of or conditions caused by others. Boardwalk Pipeline is also subject to laws and regulations, including requiring the acquisition of permits or other approvals to conduct regulated activities, restricting the manner in which it disposes of waste,

 

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requiring remedial action to remove or mitigate contamination resulting from a spill or other release, requiring capital expenditures to comply with pollution control requirements.

We and our subsidiaries are subject to physical and financial risks associated with climate change.

As awareness of climate change issues increases, governments around the world are also increasingly considering and adopting laws and regulations to address climate change issues. This may result in new environmental regulations that may unfavorably impact us, our subsidiaries and their suppliers and customers. We and our subsidiaries may be exposed to risks related to new laws or regulations pertaining to climate change, carbon emissions or energy use that could decrease the use of oil or natural gas, thus reducing demand for hydrocarbon-based fuel and related services provided by our energy subsidiaries. Governments also may pass laws or regulations encouraging or mandating the use of alternative energy sources, such as wind power and solar energy, which may reduce demand for oil and natural gas. In addition, changing global weather patterns have been associated with extreme weather events and could change longer-term natural catastrophe trends, including increasing the frequency and severity of hurricanes and other natural disasters which could increase future catastrophe losses at CNA and damage to property, disruption of business and higher operating costs at Diamond Offshore, Boardwalk Pipeline and Loews Hotels.

There is currently no federal regulation that limits Greenhouse Gas (“GHG”) emissions in the U.S. However, several bills were introduced in Congress in recent years that would regulate U.S. GHG emissions under a cap and trade system. Although these bills were not passed into law, some regulation of that type may be enacted in the U.S. in the near future. In addition, in 2009 the EPA adopted regulations under the Clean Air Act requiring the monitoring and reporting of annual GHG emissions by operators of facilities that emit more than 25,000 metric tons of GHG per year, which includes Boardwalk Pipeline. Numerous states and several regional multi-state climate initiatives have announced or adopted plans to regulate GHG emissions, though the state programs vary widely. The establishment of a GHG reporting system and registry may be a first step toward broader regulation of GHG emissions. Compliance with future laws and regulations could impose significant costs on affected companies or adversely affect the demand for and the cost to produce and transport hydrocarbon-based fuel, which would adversely affect the businesses of our energy subsidiaries.

Any significant interruption in the operation of our facilities, systems and business functions or breach in our data security infrastructure could result in a materially adverse effect on our operations.

We and our subsidiaries have become more reliant on technology to help increase efficiency in our businesses. We are dependent upon operational and financial computer systems to process the data necessary to conduct almost all aspects of our businesses. Any failure of our or our subsidiaries’ computer systems, or those of our or their customers, vendors or others with whom we and they do business, could materially disrupt business operations. Computer and other business facilities and systems could become unavailable or impaired from a variety of causes, including among others, storms and other natural disasters, terrorist attacks, utility outages or complications encountered as existing systems are replaced or upgraded. In addition, it has been reported that unknown entities or groups have mounted so-called “cyber attacks” on businesses and other organizations solely to disable or disrupt computer systems, disrupt operations and, in some cases, steal data. Any cyber attacks that affect our or our subsidiaries’ facilities could have a material adverse effect on our and their business or reputation.

A significant breach of our data security infrastructure, resulting from actions by our employees, vendors, third party administrators or by unknown third parties, that impacts our data framework or causes a failure to protect personal information of customers or employees may result in operational impairments and financial losses, as well as significant harm to our reputation.

The foregoing risks relating to disruption of service, interruption of operations and data loss could expose us to monetary and reputational damages. In addition, potential exposure includes substantially increased compliance costs and computer system upgrading and security related investments. The breach of confidential information also could give rise to legal liability and regulatory action under data protection and privacy laws and regulations, both in the U.S. and foreign jurisdictions. Any such legal or regulatory action could have a material adverse effect on our operations.

 

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Loss of key vendor relationships or issues relating to the transitioning of vendor relationships could result in a materially adverse effect on our and our subsidiaries’ operations.

We and our subsidiaries rely on services and products provided by many vendors in the United States and abroad. These include, for example, vendors of computer hardware, software and services, as well as other critical materials and services. If one or more key vendors becomes unable to continue to provide products or services at the requisite level, or fails to protect our proprietary information, including in some cases personal information of employees, customers or hotel guests, we and our subsidiaries may experience a material adverse effect on our or their business or reputation.

We could incur impairment charges related to the carrying value of the long-lived assets and goodwill of our subsidiaries.

Our subsidiaries regularly evaluate their long-lived assets and goodwill for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of these assets may not be recoverable. Most notably, we could incur impairment charges related to the carrying value of offshore drilling equipment at Diamond Offshore, pipeline and storage assets at Boardwalk Pipeline and hotel properties owned by Loews Hotels.

In particular, Diamond Offshore is currently experiencing declining demand for certain offshore drilling rigs as a result of excess rig supply in the industry due, in part, to the numerous newly constructed rigs that have or will enter the market. As a result, these rigs will negatively impact utilization which could result in Diamond Offshore incurring additional asset impairments, rig retirements and/or rigs being scrapped.

We test goodwill for impairment on an annual basis or when events or changes in circumstances indicate that a potential impairment exists. The goodwill impairment test requires us to identify reporting units and estimate each unit’s fair value as of the testing date. We calculate the fair value of our reporting units (each of our principal operating subsidiaries) based on estimates of future discounted cash flows, which reflect management’s judgments and assumptions regarding the appropriate risk-adjusted discount rate, future industry conditions and operations and other factors. Asset impairment evaluations are, by nature, highly subjective. The use of different estimates and assumptions could result in materially different carrying values of our assets which could impact the need to record an impairment charge and the amount of any charge taken.

We are a holding company and derive substantially all of our income and cash flow from our subsidiaries.

We rely upon our invested cash balances and distributions from our subsidiaries to generate the funds necessary to meet our obligations and to declare and pay any dividends to holders of our common stock. Our subsidiaries are separate and independent legal entities and have no obligation, contingent or otherwise, to make funds available to us, whether in the form of loans, dividends or otherwise. The ability of our subsidiaries to pay dividends to us is also subject to, among other things, the availability of sufficient earnings and funds in such subsidiaries, applicable state laws, including in the case of the insurance subsidiaries of CNA, laws and rules governing the payment of dividends by regulated insurance companies, and their compliance with covenants in their respective loan agreements. Claims of creditors of our subsidiaries will generally have priority as to the assets of such subsidiaries over our claims and our creditors and shareholders.

We could have liability in the future for tobacco-related lawsuits.

As a result of our ownership of Lorillard, Inc. (“Lorillard”) prior to the separation of Lorillard from us in 2008 (the “Separation”), from time to time we have been named as a defendant in tobacco-related lawsuits and could be named as a defendant in additional tobacco-related suits, notwithstanding the completion of the Separation. In the Separation Agreement entered into between us and Lorillard and its subsidiaries in connection with the Separation, Lorillard and each of its subsidiaries has agreed to indemnify us for liabilities related to Lorillard’s tobacco business, including liabilities that we may incur for current and future tobacco-related litigation against us. An adverse decision in a tobacco-related lawsuit against us could, if the indemnification is deemed for any reason to be unenforceable or any amounts owed to us thereunder are not collectible, in whole or in part, have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and equity. We do not expect that the Separation will alter the

 

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legal exposure of either entity with respect to tobacco-related claims. We do not believe that we have any liability for tobacco-related claims, and we have never been held liable for any such claims.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.

None.

Item 2. Properties.

Our corporate headquarters is located in approximately 136,000 square feet of leased office space in New York City. Information relating to our subsidiaries’ properties is contained under Item 1.

Item 3. Legal Proceedings.

None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.

None.

PART II

Item 5. Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.

Price Range of Common Stock

Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “L.” The following table sets forth the reported high and low sales prices in each calendar quarter:

 

      2014   2013    
  

 

 

 
            High             Low             High             Low         

 

 

First Quarter

  $        48.15    $         42.63    $         44.78    $         41.06       

Second Quarter

  45.43      42.29      47.10      42.59       

Third Quarter

  44.59      41.57      47.94      44.03       

Fourth Quarter

  43.77      39.04      49.43      46.10       

 

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The following graph compares annual total return of our Common Stock, the Standard & Poor’s 500 Composite Stock Index (“S&P 500 Index”), our New Peer Group (“Loews New Peer Group”) and our Old Peer Group (“Loews Old Peer Group”) for the five years ended December 31, 2014. The graph assumes that the value of the investment in our Common Stock, the S&P 500 Index, the New Peer Group and the Old Peer Group was $100 on December 31, 2009 and that all dividends were reinvested. We have historically constructed our peer group based on comparable products and services, revenue composition and size. However, in reevaluating our peer group this year, we have removed two peers due to the sale of HighMount on September 30, 2014. We believe these changes to the peer group provide a more meaningful comparison in terms of comparable products and services, revenue composition and size.

 

LOGO

 

   2009   2010   2011   2012   2013   2014  

Loews Common Stock

  100.00      107.80      104.96      114.32      136.08      119.22   

S&P 500 Index

  100.00      115.06      117.49      136.30      180.44      205.14   

Loews New Peer Group (a)

  100.00      113.09      114.89      130.27      164.11      172.84   

Loews Old Peer Group (b)

  100.00      111.28      117.28      133.14      170.42      172.44   

 

(a)

The Loews New Peer Group consists of the following companies that are industry competitors of our principal operating subsidiaries: Ace Limited, W.R. Berkley Corporation, The Chubb Corporation, Energy Transfer Partners L.P., Ensco plc, The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P. (included through November 26, 2014 when it was acquired by Kinder Morgan Inc.), Noble Corporation, Spectra Energy Corp, Transocean Ltd. and The Travelers Companies, Inc.

(b)

The Loews Old Peer Group consists of Ace Limited, W.R. Berkley Corporation, Cabot Oil & Gas Corporation, The Chubb Corporation, Energy Transfer Partners L.P., Ensco plc, The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P. (included through November 26, 2014 when it was acquired by Kinder Morgan Inc.), Noble Corporation, Range Resources Corporation, Spectra Energy Corp, Transocean Ltd. and The Travelers Companies, Inc.

Dividend Information

We have paid quarterly cash dividends on Loews common stock in each year since 1967. Regular dividends of $0.0625 per share of Loews common stock were paid in each calendar quarter of 2014 and 2013.

 

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Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

The following table provides certain information as of December 31, 2014 with respect to our equity compensation plans under which our equity securities are authorized for issuance.

 

Plan category Number of
securities to be
issued upon exercise
of outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
  Weighted average
exercise price of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
  Number of
securities remaining
available for future
issuance under
equity compensation
plans (excluding
securities reflected
in the first column)
 

 

 

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders (a)

  6,908,778              $ 39.91             6,099,228           

Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders (b)

  N/A                N/A             N/A             

 

(a)

Reflects stock options and stock appreciation rights awarded under the Loews Corporation 2000 Stock Option Plan.

(b)

We do not have equity compensation plans that have not been approved by our shareholders.

Approximate Number of Equity Security Holders

We have approximately 1,000 holders of record of our common stock.

Common Stock Repurchases

During the fourth quarter of 2014, we purchased shares of our common stock as follows:

 

Period

(a) Total number

of shares

purchased

 

(b) Average

price paid per

share

(c) Total number of
shares purchased as

part of publicly
announced plans or
programs

(d) Maximum number of shares
(or approximate dollar value)

of shares that may yet be
purchased under the plans or
programs (in millions)

 

October 1, 2014-
October 31, 2014

  4,008,200      $41.40 N/A N/A

November 1, 2014 -
November 30, 2014

  305,900      $43.17 N/A N/A

December 1, 2014 -
December 31, 2014

  696,900      $39.54 N/A N/A

 

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Item 6. Selected Financial Data.

The following table presents selected financial data. The table should be read in conjunction with Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Form 10-K.

 

Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012   2011   2010  

 

 
(In millions, except per share data)                    

Results of Operations:

Revenues

$     14,325    $     14,613    $     14,072    $     13,591    $     13,976     

Income before income tax

$ 1,810    $ 2,277    $ 2,022    $ 2,327    $ 2,676     

Income from continuing operations

$ 1,353    $ 1,621    $ 1,509    $ 1,764    $ 1,875     

Discontinued operations, net

  (391   (552   (399   (70   113     

 

 

Net income

  962      1,069      1,110      1,694      1,988     

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (371   (474   (542   (632   (699)    

 

 

Net income attributable to Loews Corporation

$ 591    $ 595    $ 568    $ 1,062    $ 1,289     

 

 

Net income attributable to Loews Corporation:

Income from continuing operations

$ 962    $ 1,149    $ 968    $ 1,121    $ 1,183     

Discontinued operations, net

  (371   (554   (400   (59   106     

 

 

Net income

$ 591    $ 595    $ 568    $ 1,062    $ 1,289     

 

 

Diluted Net Income Per Share:

Income from continuing operations

$ 2.52    $ 2.95    $ 2.44    $ 2.77    $ 2.82     

Discontinued operations, net

  (0.97   (1.42   (1.01   (0.15   0.25     

 

 

Net income

$ 1.55    $ 1.53    $ 1.43    $ 2.62    $ 3.07     

 

 

Financial Position:

Investments

$ 52,032    $ 52,945    $ 53,040    $ 48,943    $ 48,779     

Total assets

  78,367      79,939      80,021      75,268      76,198     

Debt

  10,668      10,344      8,500      8,301      8,377     

Shareholders’ equity

  19,280      19,458      19,459      18,772      18,386     

Cash dividends per share

  0.25      0.25      0.25      0.25      0.25     

Book value per share

  51.70      50.25      49.67      47.33      44.35     

Shares outstanding

  372.93      387.21      391.81      396.59      414.55     

 

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Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is comprised of the following sections:

 

  Page
    No.    

Overview

Consolidated Financial Results

46

Discontinued Operations

47

Parent Company Structure

47

Critical Accounting Estimates

47

Results of Operations by Business Segment

50

CNA Financial

50

Diamond Offshore

64

Boardwalk Pipeline

72

Loews Hotels

77

Corporate and Other

78

Discontinued Operations

79

Liquidity and Capital Resources

79

CNA Financial

79

Diamond Offshore

81

Boardwalk Pipeline

82

Loews Hotels

83

Corporate and Other

83

Contractual Obligations

84

Investments

85

Accounting Standards Update

89

Forward-Looking Statements

89

 

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OVERVIEW

We are a holding company. Our subsidiaries are engaged in the following lines of business:

 

   

commercial property and casualty insurance (CNA Financial Corporation (“CNA”), a 90% owned subsidiary);

 

   

operation of offshore oil and gas drilling rigs (Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc. (“Diamond Offshore”), a 52.5% owned subsidiary);

 

   

transportation and storage of natural gas and natural gas liquids and gathering and processing of natural gas (Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, LP (“Boardwalk Pipeline”), a 53% owned subsidiary); and

 

   

operation of a chain of hotels (Loews Hotels Holding Corporation (“Loews Hotels”), a wholly owned subsidiary).

See below for a discussion of discontinued operations.

Unless the context otherwise requires, references in this Report to “Loews Corporation,” “the Company,” “Parent Company,” “we,” “our,” “us” or like terms refer to the business of Loews Corporation excluding its subsidiaries.

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with Item 1A, Risk Factors, and Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Form 10-K.

Consolidated Financial Results

Income from continuing operations for 2014 was $962 million, or $2.52 per share, compared to $1.1 billion, or $2.95 per share, in 2013. Consolidated net income for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $591 million, or $1.55 per share, compared to $595 million, or $1.53 per share, in 2013. Net income includes discontinued operations reflecting the sale of HighMount Exploration & Production, LLC (“HighMount”) and CNA’s annuity and pension deposit business.

Income from continuing operations decreased primarily due to lower earnings at CNA, Diamond Offshore and Boardwalk Pipeline.

CNA’s earnings declined due to lower net investment income as a result of reduced limited partnership income and lower favorable net prior year development as well as a $31 million loss (after tax and noncontrolling interests) on a coinsurance transaction related to the August 1, 2014 sale of CNA’s annuity and pension deposit business. These decreases were partially offset by improved current accident year underwriting results, lower catastrophe losses and the prior year impact of a $111 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) deferred gain under retroactive reinsurance accounting related to the Loss Portfolio Transfer (“LPT”). See the Results of Operations by Business Segment – CNA Financial – Property and Casualty Claim and Claim Adjustment Expense Reserves for further information on the LPT transaction.

Diamond Offshore’s earnings decreased primarily due to lower utilization, an impairment loss of $55 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) related to the carrying value of six semisubmersible rigs, and higher depreciation and interest expense. These decreases were partially offset by the absence of a prior year tax provision of $27 million (after noncontrolling interests) for an uncertain tax position related to its Egyptian operations.

Boardwalk Pipeline’s earnings decreased primarily due to a $55 million charge (after tax and noncontrolling interests) related to the write-off of all previously capitalized costs incurred by the Company and Boardwalk Pipeline for the proposed Bluegrass project as well as higher operations, maintenance and depreciation expense in 2014. The prior year included a goodwill impairment charge of $16 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) partially offset by a gain on the sale of storage gas of $13 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests).

 

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Discontinued operations in 2014 include impairment charges related to the sale of HighMount and CNA’s annuity and pension deposit business as well as the operations of those businesses. Additionally, discontinued operations in 2013 included a goodwill impairment charge of $382 million (after tax), a ceiling test impairment charge of $186 million (after tax) and an impairment charge of $22 million (after tax) related to gathering pipelines at HighMount.

Book value per share increased to $51.70 at December 31, 2014 from $50.25 at December 31, 2013. Book value per share excluding Accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) increased to $50.95 at December 31, 2014 from $49.38 at December 31, 2013.

Discontinued Operations

On August 1, 2014, CNA completed the sale of Continental Assurance Company (“CAC”), its life insurance subsidiary. In connection with the sale, we recorded a loss of $189 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests), which is reflected as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

In May of 2014, the Company announced that HighMount, its natural gas and oil exploration and production subsidiary, was pursuing strategic alternatives, including a potential sale of the business. On August 7, 2014, the Company entered into an agreement to sell HighMount to privately held affiliates of EnerVest, Ltd. and on September 30, 2014, HighMount was sold for net proceeds of $787 million. HighMount’s bank debt of $480 million was repaid from proceeds of the sale. We recorded a loss of $138 million (after tax) in connection with the sale which is reflected as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Parent Company Structure

We are a holding company and derive substantially all of our cash flow from our subsidiaries. We rely upon our invested cash balances and distributions from our subsidiaries to generate the funds necessary to meet our obligations and to declare and pay any dividends to our shareholders. The ability of our subsidiaries to pay dividends is subject to, among other things, the availability of sufficient earnings and funds in such subsidiaries, applicable state laws, including in the case of the insurance subsidiaries of CNA, laws and rules governing the payment of dividends by regulated insurance companies (see Note 14 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8) and compliance with covenants in their respective loan agreements. Claims of creditors of our subsidiaries will generally have priority as to the assets of such subsidiaries over our claims and those of our creditors and shareholders.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

The preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements and the related notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

The Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes have been prepared in accordance with GAAP, applied on a consistent basis. We continually evaluate the accounting policies and estimates used to prepare the Consolidated Financial Statements. In general, our estimates are based on historical experience, evaluation of current trends, information from third party professionals and various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the known facts and circumstances.

We consider the accounting policies discussed below to be critical to an understanding of our Consolidated Financial Statements as their application places the most significant demands on our judgment. Due to the inherent uncertainties involved with these types of judgments, actual results could differ significantly from estimates, which may have a material adverse impact on our results of operations or equity.

 

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Insurance Reserves

Insurance reserves are established for both short and long-duration insurance contracts. Short-duration contracts are primarily related to property and casualty insurance policies where the reserving process is based on actuarial estimates of the amount of loss, including amounts for known and unknown claims. Long-duration contracts are primarily related to long term care and are estimated using actuarial estimates about morbidity and persistency as well as assumptions about expected investment returns and future rate increases. The reserve for unearned premiums on property and casualty contracts represents the portion of premiums written related to the unexpired terms of coverage. The reserving process is discussed in further detail in the Reserves – Estimates and Uncertainties section below.

Reinsurance and Other Receivables

An exposure exists with respect to the collectibility of ceded property and casualty and life reinsurance to the extent that any reinsurer is unable to meet its obligations or disputes the liabilities CNA has ceded under reinsurance agreements. An allowance for doubtful accounts on reinsurance receivables is recorded on the basis of periodic evaluations of balances due from reinsurers, reinsurer solvency, CNA’s past experience and current economic conditions. Further information on CNA’s reinsurance receivables is included in Note 16 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

Additionally, an exposure exists with respect to the collectibility of amounts due from customers on other receivables. An allowance for doubtful accounts is recorded on the basis of periodic evaluations of balances due currently or in the future, management’s experience and current economic conditions.

If actual experience differs from the estimates made by management in determining the allowances for doubtful accounts on reinsurance and other receivables, net receivables as reflected on our Consolidated Balance Sheets may not be collected. Therefore, our results of operations and/or equity could be materially adversely affected.

Valuation of Investments and Impairment of Securities

We classify fixed maturity securities and equity securities as either available-for-sale or trading which are both carried at fair value. Fair value represents the price that would be received in a sale of an asset in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date, the determination of which requires us to make a significant number of assumptions and judgments. Securities with the greatest level of subjectivity around valuation are those that rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value and that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. These unobservable inputs are based on assumptions consistent with what we believe other market participants would use to price such securities. Further information on fair value measurements is included in Note 4 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

CNA’s investment portfolio is subject to market declines below amortized cost that may be other-than-temporary and therefore result in the recognition of impairment losses in earnings. Factors considered in the determination of whether or not a decline is other-than-temporary include a current intention or need to sell the security or an indication that a credit loss exists. Significant judgment exists regarding the evaluation of the financial condition and expected near-term and long term prospects of the issuer, the relevant industry conditions and trends, and whether CNA expects to receive cash flows sufficient to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. CNA has an Impairment Committee which reviews the investment portfolio on at least a quarterly basis, with ongoing analysis as new information becomes available. Further information on CNA’s process for evaluating impairments is included in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

Long Term Care Policies

Future policy benefit reserves for CNA’s long term care policies are based on certain assumptions including morbidity, persistency, discount rates and future rate increases. The adequacy of the reserves is contingent on actual experience related to these key assumptions, which were generally established at time of issue. If actual experience differs from these assumptions, the reserves may not be adequate, requiring CNA to add to reserves.

 

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A prolonged period during which interest rates remain at levels lower than those anticipated in CNA’s reserving discount rate assumption could result in shortfalls in investment income on assets supporting CNA’s obligations under long term care policies, which may also require an increase to CNA’s reserves. In addition, CNA may not receive regulatory approval for the rate increases it requests.

These changes to CNA’s reserves could materially adversely impact our results of operations and equity. The reserving process is discussed in further detail in the Reserves – Estimates and Uncertainties section below.

Pension and Postretirement Benefit Obligations

We make a significant number of assumptions in order to estimate the liabilities and costs related to our pension and postretirement benefit obligations under our benefit plans. The assumptions that have the most impact on pension costs are the discount rate and the expected long term rate of return on plan assets. These assumptions are evaluated relative to current market factors such as inflation, interest rates and fiscal and monetary policies. Changes in these assumptions can have a material impact on pension obligations and pension expense.

In determining the discount rate assumption, we utilized current market information and liability information, including a discounted cash flow analysis of our pension and postretirement obligations. In particular, the basis for our discount rate selection was the yield on indices of highly rated fixed income debt securities with durations comparable to that of our plan liabilities. The yield curve was applied to expected future retirement plan payments to adjust the discount rate to reflect the cash flow characteristics of the plans. The yield curves and indices evaluated in the selection of the discount rate are comprised of high quality corporate bonds that are rated AA by an accepted rating agency.

In determining the expected long term rate of return on plan assets assumption, we considered the historical performance of the investment portfolio as well as the long term market return expectations based on the investment mix of the portfolio.

Further information on our pension and postretirement benefit obligations is in Note 15 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

The Company reviews its long-lived assets for impairment when changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. The Company uses a probability-weighted cash flow analysis to test property and equipment for impairment based on relevant market data. If an asset is determined to be impaired, a loss is recognized to reduce the carrying amount to the fair value of the asset. Management’s cash flow assumptions are an inherent part of our asset impairment evaluation and the use of different assumptions could produce results that differ from the reported amounts.

Goodwill

Goodwill is required to be evaluated on an annual basis and whenever, in management’s judgment, there is a significant change in circumstances that would be considered a triggering event. Management must apply judgment in assessing qualitatively whether events or circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. Factors such as a reporting unit’s planned future operating results, long term growth outlook and industry and market conditions are considered. Judgment is also applied in determining the estimated fair value of reporting units’ assets and liabilities for purposes of performing quantitative goodwill impairment tests. Management uses all available information to make these fair value determinations, including the present values of expected future cash flows using discount rates commensurate with the risks involved in the assets and observed market multiples.

 

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Income Taxes

Deferred income taxes are recognized for temporary differences between the financial statement and tax return bases of assets and liabilities. Any resulting future tax benefits are recognized to the extent that realization of such benefits is more likely than not, and a valuation allowance is established for any portion of a deferred tax asset that management believes may not be realized. The assessment of the need for a valuation allowance requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future earnings, reversal of existing temporary differences and available tax planning strategies. If actual experience differs from these estimates and assumptions, the recorded deferred tax asset may not be fully realized resulting in an increase to income tax expense in our results of operations. In addition, the ability to record deferred tax assets in the future could be limited resulting in a higher effective tax rate in that future period.

The Company has not established deferred tax liabilities for certain of its foreign earnings as it intends to indefinitely reinvest those earnings to finance foreign activities. However, if these earnings become subject to U.S. federal tax, any required provision could have a material impact on our financial results.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS BY BUSINESS SEGMENT

Unless the context otherwise requires, references to net operating income (loss), net realized investment results and net income (loss) reflect amounts attributable to Loews Corporation shareholders.

CNA Financial

Reserves – Estimates and Uncertainties

The level of reserves CNA maintains represents its best estimate, as of a particular point in time, of what the ultimate settlement and administration of claims will cost based on CNA’s assessment of facts and circumstances known at that time. Reserves are not an exact calculation of liability but instead are complex estimates that CNA derives, generally utilizing a variety of actuarial reserve estimation techniques, from numerous assumptions and expectations about future events, both internal and external, many of which are highly uncertain. As noted below, CNA reviews its reserves for each segment of its business periodically and any such review could result in the need to increase reserves in amounts which could be material and could adversely affect its results of operations, equity, business and insurer financial strength and corporate debt ratings. Further information on reserves is provided in Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

Property and Casualty Claim and Claim Adjustment Expense Reserves

CNA maintains loss reserves to cover its estimated ultimate unpaid liability for claim and claim adjustment expenses, including the estimated cost of the claims adjudication process, for claims that have been reported but not yet settled (case reserves) and claims that have been incurred but not reported (“IBNR”). Claim and claim adjustment expense reserves are reflected as liabilities and are included on the Consolidated Balance Sheets under the heading “Insurance Reserves.” Adjustments to prior year reserve estimates, if necessary, are reflected in results of operations in the period that the need for such adjustments is determined. The carried case and IBNR reserves as of each balance sheet date are provided in the discussion that follows and in Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

CNA is subject to the uncertain effects of emerging or potential claims and coverage issues that arise as industry practices and legal, judicial, social, economic and other environmental conditions change. These issues have had, and may continue to have, a negative effect on CNA’s business by either extending coverage beyond the original underwriting intent or by increasing the number or size of claims. Examples of emerging or potential claims and coverage issues include:

 

   

uncertainty in future medical costs in workers’ compensation. In particular, medical cost inflation could be greater than expected due to new treatments, drugs and devices; increased health care utilization; and/or the future costs of health care facilities. In addition, the relationship between workers’ compensation and

 

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government and private health care providers could change, potentially shifting costs to workers’ compensation;

 

   

increased uncertainty related to medical professional liability, medical products liability and workers’ compensation coverages resulting from the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act;

 

   

significant class action litigation; and

 

   

mass tort claims, including bodily injury claims related to benzene, lead, noise induced hearing loss, injuries from various medical products including pharmaceuticals and various other chemical and radiation exposure claims.

The impact of these and other unforeseen emerging or potential claims and coverage issues is difficult to predict and could materially adversely affect the adequacy of CNA’s claim and claim adjustment expense reserves and could lead to future reserve additions.

CNA’s property and casualty insurance subsidiaries also have actual and potential exposures related to asbestos and environmental pollution (“A&EP”) claims. CNA’s experience has been that establishing reserves for casualty coverages relating to A&EP claims and the related claim adjustment expenses are subject to uncertainties that are greater than those presented by other claims. Additionally, traditional actuarial methods and techniques employed to estimate the ultimate cost of claims for more traditional property and casualty exposures are less precise in estimating claim and claim adjustment reserves for A&EP. As a result, estimating the ultimate cost of both reported and unreported A&EP claims is subject to a higher degree of variability.

To mitigate the risks posed by CNA’s exposure to A&EP claims and claim adjustment expenses, as further discussed in Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8, on August 31, 2010, CNA completed a transaction with National Indemnity Company (“NICO”), under which substantially all of CNA’s legacy A&EP liabilities were ceded to NICO effective January 1, 2010 (“Loss Portfolio Transfer” or “LPT”).

The Loss Portfolio Transfer is a retroactive reinsurance contract. During the fourth quarter of 2013 the cumulative amounts ceded under the Loss Portfolio Transfer exceeded the consideration paid, resulting in a $189 million deferred retroactive reinsurance gain. This deferred benefit will be recognized in earnings in future periods in proportion to actual recoveries under the Loss Portfolio Transfer. Over the life of the contract, there is no economic impact as long as any additional losses are within the limit under the contract. The fourth quarter of 2014 A&EP reserve review was not completed. Additional information and analysis on inuring third party reinsurance recoveries are needed to finalize the review. CNA expects to complete the review in the first half of 2015.

Establishing Property & Casualty Reserve Estimates

In developing claim and claim adjustment expense (“loss” or “losses”) reserve estimates, CNA’s actuaries perform detailed reserve analyses that are staggered throughout the year. The data is organized at a “product” level. A product can be a line of business covering a subset of insureds such as commercial automobile liability for small or middle market customers, it can encompass several lines of business provided to a specific set of customers such as dentists, or it can be a particular type of claim such as construction defect. Every product is reviewed at least once during the year. The analyses generally review losses gross of ceded reinsurance and apply the ceded reinsurance terms to the gross estimates to establish estimates net of reinsurance. In addition to the detailed analyses, CNA reviews actual loss emergence for all products each quarter.

The detailed analyses use a variety of generally accepted actuarial methods and techniques to produce a number of estimates of ultimate loss. CNA’s actuaries determine a point estimate of ultimate loss by reviewing the various estimates and assigning weight to each estimate given the characteristics of the product being reviewed. The reserve estimate is the difference between the estimated ultimate loss and the losses paid to date. The difference between the estimated ultimate loss and the case incurred loss (paid loss plus case reserve) is IBNR. IBNR calculated as such includes a provision for development on known cases (supplemental development) as well as a provision for claims that have occurred but have not yet been reported (pure IBNR).

 

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Most of CNA’s business can be characterized as long-tail. For long-tail business, it will generally be several years between the time the business is written and the time when all claims are settled. CNA’s long-tail exposures include commercial automobile liability, workers’ compensation, general liability, medical professional liability, other professional liability and management liability coverages, assumed reinsurance run-off and products liability. Short-tail exposures include property, commercial automobile physical damage, marine, surety and warranty. Specialty, Commercial and International contain both long-tail and short-tail exposures. Other contains long-tail exposures.

Various methods are used to project ultimate loss for both long-tail and short-tail exposures including, but not limited to, the following:

 

   

paid development;

 

   

incurred development;

 

   

loss ratio;

 

   

Bornhuetter-Ferguson using paid loss;

 

   

Bornhuetter-Ferguson using incurred loss;

 

   

frequency times severity; and

 

   

stochastic modeling.

The paid development method estimates ultimate losses by reviewing paid loss patterns and applying them to accident or policy years with further expected changes in paid loss. Selection of the paid loss pattern may require consideration of several factors including the impact of inflation on claims costs, the rate at which claims professionals make claim payments and close claims, the impact of judicial decisions, the impact of underwriting changes, the impact of large claim payments and other factors. Claim cost inflation itself may require evaluation of changes in the cost of repairing or replacing property, changes in the cost of medical care, changes in the cost of wage replacement, judicial decisions, legislative changes and other factors. Because this method assumes that losses are paid at a consistent rate, changes in any of these factors can impact the results. Since the method does not rely on case reserves, it is not directly influenced by changes in the adequacy of case reserves.

For many products, paid loss data for recent periods may be too immature or erratic for accurate predictions. This situation often exists for long-tail exposures. In addition, changes in the factors described above may result in inconsistent payment patterns. Finally, estimating the paid loss pattern subsequent to the most mature point available in the data analyzed often involves considerable uncertainty for long-tail products such as workers’ compensation.

The incurred development method is similar to the paid development method, but it uses case incurred losses instead of paid losses. Since the method uses more data (case reserves in addition to paid losses) than the paid development method, the incurred development patterns may be less variable than paid patterns. However, selection of the incurred loss pattern typically requires analysis of all of the same factors described above. In addition, the inclusion of case reserves can lead to distortions if changes in case reserving practices have taken place, and the use of case incurred losses may not eliminate the issues associated with estimating the incurred loss pattern subsequent to the most mature point available.

The loss ratio method multiplies earned premiums by an expected loss ratio to produce ultimate loss estimates for each accident or policy year. This method may be useful for immature accident or policy periods or if loss development patterns are inconsistent, losses emerge very slowly, or there is relatively little loss history from which to estimate future losses. The selection of the expected loss ratio typically requires analysis of loss ratios from earlier accident or policy years or pricing studies and analysis of inflationary trends, frequency trends, rate changes, underwriting changes and other applicable factors.

 

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The Bornhuetter-Ferguson method using paid loss is a combination of the paid development method and the loss ratio method. This method normally determines expected loss ratios similar to the approach used to estimate the expected loss ratio for the loss ratio method and typically requires analysis of the same factors described above. This method assumes that future losses will develop at the expected loss ratio level. The percent of paid loss to ultimate loss implied from the paid development method is used to determine what percentage of ultimate loss is yet to be paid. The use of the pattern from the paid development method typically requires consideration of the same factors listed in the description of the paid development method. The estimate of losses yet to be paid is added to current paid losses to estimate the ultimate loss for each year. For long-tail lines, this method will react very slowly if actual ultimate loss ratios are different from expectations due to changes not accounted for by the expected loss ratio calculation.

The Bornhuetter-Ferguson method using incurred loss is similar to the Bornhuetter-Ferguson method using paid loss except that it uses case incurred losses. The use of case incurred losses instead of paid losses can result in development patterns that are less variable than paid patterns. However, the inclusion of case reserves can lead to distortions if changes in case reserving have taken place, and the method typically requires analysis of the same factors that need to be reviewed for the loss ratio and incurred development methods.

The frequency times severity method multiplies a projected number of ultimate claims by an estimated ultimate average loss for each accident or policy year to produce ultimate loss estimates. Since projections of the ultimate number of claims are often less variable than projections of ultimate loss, this method can provide more reliable results for products where loss development patterns are inconsistent or too variable to be relied on exclusively. In addition, this method can more directly account for changes in coverage that impact the number and size of claims. However, this method can be difficult to apply to situations where very large claims or a substantial number of unusual claims result in volatile average claim sizes. Projecting the ultimate number of claims may require analysis of several factors including the rate at which policyholders report claims to CNA, the impact of judicial decisions, the impact of underwriting changes and other factors. Estimating the ultimate average loss may require analysis of the impact of large losses and claim cost trends based on changes in the cost of repairing or replacing property, changes in the cost of medical care, changes in the cost of wage replacement, judicial decisions, legislative changes and other factors.

Stochastic modeling produces a range of possible outcomes based on varying assumptions related to the particular product being modeled. For some products, CNA uses models which rely on historical development patterns at an aggregate level, while other products are modeled using individual claim variability assumptions supplied by the claims department. In either case, multiple simulations are run and the results are analyzed to produce a range of potential outcomes. The results will typically include a mean and percentiles of the possible reserve distribution which aid in the selection of a point estimate.

For many exposures, especially those that can be considered long-tail, a particular accident or policy year may not have a sufficient volume of paid losses to produce a statistically reliable estimate of ultimate losses. In such a case, CNA’s actuaries typically assign more weight to the incurred development method than to the paid development method. As claims continue to settle and the volume of paid loss increases, the actuaries may assign additional weight to the paid development method. For most of CNA’s products, even the incurred losses for accident or policy years that are early in the claim settlement process will not be of sufficient volume to produce a reliable estimate of ultimate losses. In these cases, CNA will not assign any weight to the paid and incurred development methods. CNA will use the loss ratio, Bornhuetter-Ferguson and frequency times severity methods. For short-tail exposures, the paid and incurred development methods can often be relied on sooner primarily because CNA’s history includes a sufficient number of years to cover the entire period over which paid and incurred losses are expected to change. However, CNA may also use the loss ratio, Bornhuetter-Ferguson and frequency times severity methods for short-tail exposures.

For other more complex products where the above methods may not produce reliable indications, CNA uses additional methods tailored to the characteristics of the specific situation.

 

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Periodic Reserve Reviews

The reserve analyses performed by CNA’s actuaries result in point estimates. Each quarter, the results of the detailed reserve reviews are summarized and discussed with CNA’s senior management to determine the best estimate of reserves. CNA’s senior management considers many factors in making this decision. The factors include, but are not limited to, the historical pattern and volatility of the actuarial indications, the sensitivity of the actuarial indications to changes in paid and incurred loss patterns, the consistency of claims handling processes, the consistency of case reserving practices, changes in CNA’s pricing and underwriting, pricing and underwriting trends in the insurance market and legal, judicial, social and economic trends.

CNA’s recorded reserves reflect its best estimate as of a particular point in time based upon known facts, consideration of the factors cited above and its judgment. The carried reserve may differ from the actuarial point estimate as the result of CNA’s consideration of the factors noted above as well as the potential volatility of the projections associated with the specific product being analyzed and other factors affecting claims costs that may not be quantifiable through traditional actuarial analysis. This process results in management’s best estimate which is then recorded as the loss reserve.

Currently, CNA’s recorded reserves are modestly higher than the actuarial point estimate. For Commercial, Specialty and International, the difference between CNA’s reserves and the actuarial point estimate is primarily driven by uncertainty with respect to immature accident years, claim cost inflation, changes in claims handling, changes to the tort environment which may adversely impact claim costs and the effects from the economy. For CNA’s legacy A&EP liabilities, the difference between CNA’s reserves and the actuarial point estimate is primarily driven by the potential tail volatility of run-off exposures.

The key assumptions fundamental to the reserving process are often different for various products and accident or policy years. Some of these assumptions are explicit assumptions that are required of a particular method, but most of the assumptions are implicit and cannot be precisely quantified. An example of an explicit assumption is the pattern employed in the paid development method. However, the assumed pattern is itself based on several implicit assumptions such as the impact of inflation on medical costs and the rate at which claim professionals close claims. As a result, the effect on reserve estimates of a particular change in assumptions typically cannot be specifically quantified, and changes in these assumptions cannot be tracked over time.

CNA’s recorded reserves are management’s best estimate. In order to provide an indication of the variability associated with CNA’s net reserves, the following discussion provides a sensitivity analysis that shows the approximate estimated impact of variations in significant factors affecting CNA’s reserve estimates for particular types of business. These significant factors are the ones that CNA believes could most likely materially affect the reserves. This discussion covers the major types of business for which CNA believes a material deviation to its reserves is reasonably possible. There can be no assurance that actual experience will be consistent with the current assumptions or with the variation indicated by the discussion. In addition, there can be no assurance that other factors and assumptions will not have a material impact on CNA’s reserves.

CNA believes a material deviation to its net reserves is reasonably possible for professional liability and management liability products and Surety products. This includes professional liability coverages provided to various professional firms, including architects, real estate agents, small and mid-sized accounting firms, law firms and other professional firms. This also includes D&O, employment practices, fiduciary, fidelity and surety coverages, as well as insurance products serving the health care delivery system. The most significant factor affecting reserve estimates for these products is claim severity. Claim severity is driven by the cost of medical care, the cost of wage replacement, legal fees, judicial decisions, legislative changes and other factors. Underwriting and claim handling decisions such as the classes of business written and individual claim settlement decisions can also impact claim severity. If the estimated claim severity increases by 9%, CNA estimates that the net reserves would increase by approximately $500 million. If the estimated claim severity decreases by 3%, CNA estimates that net reserves would decrease by approximately $150 million. CNA’s net reserves for these products were approximately $5.4 billion at December 31, 2014.

 

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The two types of business for which CNA believes a significant deviation to its net reserves is reasonably possible are workers’ compensation and general liability.

For workers’ compensation, since many years will pass from the time the business is written until all claim payments have been made, claim cost inflation on claim payments is the most significant factor affecting workers’ compensation reserve estimates. Workers’ compensation claim cost inflation is driven by the cost of medical care, the cost of wage replacement, expected claimant lifetimes, judicial decisions, legislative changes and other factors. If estimated workers’ compensation claim cost inflation increases by 100 basis points for the entire period over which claim payments will be made, CNA estimates that its net reserves would increase by approximately $400 million. If estimated workers’ compensation claim cost inflation decreases by 100 basis points for the entire period over which claim payments will be made, CNA estimates that its net reserves would decrease by approximately $400 million. Net reserves for workers’ compensation were approximately $4.5 billion at December 31, 2014.

For general liability, the most significant factor affecting reserve estimates is claim severity. Claim severity is driven by changes in the cost of repairing or replacing property, the cost of medical care, the cost of wage replacement, judicial decisions, legislation and other factors. If the estimated claim severity for general liability increases by 6%, CNA estimates that its net reserves would increase by approximately $200 million. If the estimated claim severity for general liability decreases by 3%, CNA estimates that its net reserves would decrease by approximately $100 million. Net reserves for general liability were approximately $3.7 billion at December 31, 2014.

Given the factors described above, it is not possible to quantify precisely the ultimate exposure represented by claims and related litigation. As a result, CNA regularly reviews the adequacy of its reserves and reassesses its reserve estimates as historical loss experience develops, additional claims are reported and settled and additional information becomes available in subsequent periods.

In light of the many uncertainties associated with establishing the estimates and making the assumptions necessary to establish reserve levels, CNA reviews its reserve estimates on a regular basis and makes adjustments in the period that the need for such adjustments is determined. These reviews have resulted in CNA’s identification of information and trends that have caused CNA to change its reserves in prior periods and could lead to the identification of a need for additional material increases or decreases in claim and claim adjustment expense reserves, which could materially affect our results of operations and equity and CNA’s business and insurer financial strength and corporate debt ratings positively or negatively. See the Ratings section of this MD&A for further information regarding CNA’s financial strength and corporate debt ratings.

The following table summarizes gross and net carried reserves for CNA’s property and casualty operations:

 

December 31 2014   2013  

 

 
(In millions)        

Gross Case Reserves

$ 8,186    $ 8,374         

Gross IBNR Reserves

  8,998      9,350         

 

 

Total Gross Carried Claim and Claim Adjustment Expense Reserves

$ 17,184    $ 17,724         

 

 

Net Case Reserves

$ 7,474    $ 7,541         

Net IBNR Reserves

  8,295      8,486         

 

 

Total Net Carried Claim and Claim Adjustment Expense Reserves

$     15,769    $     16,027         

 

 

 

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The following table summarizes the gross and net carried reserves for certain property and casualty business in run-off, including CNA Re and A&EP:

 

December 31 2014   2013  

 

 
(In millions)        

Gross Case Reserves

$       1,189    $       1,140         

Gross IBNR Reserves

  1,715      2,167         

 

 

Total Gross Carried Claim and Claim Adjustment Expense Reserves

$ 2,904    $ 3,307         

 

 

Net Case Reserves

$ 144    $ 283         

Net IBNR Reserves

  171      184         

 

 

Total Net Carried Claim and Claim Adjustment Expense Reserves

$ 315    $ 467         

 

 

Life & Group Non-Core Policyholder Reserves

CNA calculates and maintains reserves for policyholder benefits for Life & Group Non-Core, which primarily includes long term care, based on actuarial assumptions. The determination of these reserves is fundamental to its financial results and requires management to make assumptions about expected investment and policyholder experience over the life of the contract. Since many of these contracts may be in force for several decades, these assumptions are subject to significant estimation risk.

The actuarial assumptions represent management’s best estimates at the date the contract was issued plus a margin for adverse deviation. Actuarial assumptions include estimates of morbidity, persistency, discount rates and expenses over the life of the contracts. Under GAAP, these assumptions are locked in throughout the life of the contract unless a premium deficiency develops. The impact of differences between the actuarial assumptions and actual experience is reflected in results of operations each period.

Long term care policies provide benefits for nursing home, assisted living and home health care subject to various daily and lifetime caps. Policyholders must continue to make periodic premium payments to keep the policy in force. Generally CNA has the ability to increase policy premiums, subject to state regulatory approval.

CNA’s long term care reserves consist of an active life reserve, a liability for due and unpaid claims, claims in the course of settlement and incurred but not reported claims. The active life reserve represents the present value of expected future benefit payments and expenses less expected future premium.

The actuarial assumptions that management believes are subject to the most variability are discount rate, morbidity and persistency. Persistency can be affected by policy lapses and death. Discount rate is influenced by the investment yield on assets supporting long term care reserves which is subject to interest rate and market volatility. There is limited historical company and industry data available to CNA for long term care morbidity and mortality, as only a small portion of the policies written to date are in claims paying status. As a result of this variability, CNA’s long term care reserves may be subject to material increases if actual experience develops adversely to its expectations.

Annually, management assesses the adequacy of its GAAP reserves by product group by performing a gross premium valuation (“GPV”) to determine if there is a premium deficiency. Under the GPV, management estimates required reserves using best estimate assumptions, including anticipated future rate increases, as of the date of the assessment without provisions for adverse deviation. The GPV reserves are then compared to the recorded reserves. If the GPV reserves are greater than the existing net GAAP reserves (i.e. reserves net of any deferred acquisition costs asset), the existing net GAAP reserves are unlocked and are increased to the greater amount. Any such increase would be reflected in CNA’s results of operations in the period in which the need for such adjustment is determined, and could materially adversely affect our results of operations and equity and CNA’s business and insurer financial strength and corporate debt ratings.

 

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The level of margin in CNA’s long term care reserves at December 31, 2014 was approximately $100 million, a decrease of approximately $250 million from the prior year end. A summary of the changes in the margin is presented in the table below:

 

 

 
(In millions)    

Long term care active life reserve margin

December 31, 2013 margin

$               350            

Investment assumptions:

Updated rate & spread assumptions

  (640)           

Updated investment strategy/assumptions

  325            

Operating assumptions:

Roll forward and updated liability assumptions

  (195)           

Anticipated premium rate increases

  260            

 

 

December 31, 2014 margin

$ 100            

 

 

The decrease in the margin from the updated investment rate and spread assumptions reflects the impact of the decline in interest rates in 2014 and the expectation of a lower interest rate environment on the current year GPV. This margin reduction was somewhat offset by actual investment yields achieved during the year and planned changes in CNA’s investment strategy.

The decline in the margin related to liability assumptions was driven by morbidity. This was more than offset by an increase in planned rate increase actions.

The table below summarizes the estimated pretax impact on CNA’s results of operations from various hypothetical revisions to its assumptions. CNA has assumed that revisions to such assumptions would occur in each policy type, age and duration within each policy group and would occur absent any changes, mitigating or otherwise, in the other assumptions. Although such hypothetical revisions are not currently required or anticipated, CNA believes they could occur based on past variances in experience and its expectations of the ranges of future experience that could reasonably occur.

Any required increase in the net GAAP reserves resulting from the hypothetical revisions in the table below would first reduce the margin in CNA’s carried reserves before it would affect results of operations. The estimated impacts to results of operations in the table below are after consideration of the existing margin.

 

December 31, 2014 Estimated Reduction  
to Pretax Income
 

 

 
(In millions of dollars)    

Hypothetical revisions

Discount rate:

50 basis point decline

$               640                

100 basis point decline

  1,477                

Morbidity:

5% increase

  474                

15% increase

  1,625                

Persistency:

5% decline in voluntary lapse and mortality

  246                

10% decline in voluntary lapse and mortality

  616                

Premium rate:

25% decrease in anticipated future rate increases

  68                

50% decrease in anticipated future rate increases

  241                

 

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Any actual adjustment would be dependent on the specific policies affected and, therefore, may differ from the estimates summarized above.

The following table summarizes policyholder reserves for Life & Group Non-Core. Consistent with the Consolidated Balance Sheet presentation, the comparative period continues to reflect CAC liabilities.

 

December 31, 2014 Claim and claim
adjustment expenses
  Future
policy benefits
  Policyholders’
funds
  Separate
account business
  Total        

 

 
(In millions)                    

Long term care

  $              2,064              $ 7,782    $ 9,846         

Structured settlement annuities

  606                606         

Other

  28                1      29         

 

 

Total

  2,698                7,783      10,481         

Shadow adjustments (a)

  145                1,522      1,667         

Ceded reserves

  340                185      525         

 

 

Total gross reserves

  $ 3,183              $ 9,490    $ -    $ -       $ 12,673         

 

 

December 31, 2013

 

 

Long term care

  $ 1,889              $ 7,329    $ 9,218         

Annuities, including structured settlements

  613                1,990      2,603         

Institutional markets

  1                9    $ 57    $ 181          248         

Other

  37                4      41         

 

 

Total

  2,540                9,332      57      181          12,110         

Shadow adjustments (a)

  83                406      489         

Ceded reserves

  435                733      35      1,203         

 

 

Total gross reserves

  $ 3,058              $          10,471    $              92    $              181        $         13,802         

 

 

 

(a)

To the extent that unrealized gains on fixed income securities supporting long term care products and annuity contracts would result in a premium deficiency if those gains were realized, a related decrease in Deferred acquisition costs and/or increase in Insurance reserves are recorded, net of tax and noncontrolling interests, as a reduction of net unrealized gains through Other comprehensive income (“Shadow Adjustments”). The Shadow Adjustments presented above do not include $314 million and $342 million related to Deferred acquisition costs at December 31, 2014 and 2013.

 

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Results of Operations

The following table summarizes the results of operations for CNA for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 as presented in Note 22 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

 

Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012      

 

 
(In millions)            

Revenues:

Insurance premiums

$       7,212    $       7,271    $       6,881           

Net investment income

  2,067      2,282      2,110           

Investment gains

  54      16      51           

Other revenues

  359      363      322           

 

 

Total

  9,692      9,932      9,364           

 

 

Expenses:

Insurance claims and policyholders’ benefits

  5,591      5,806      5,729           

Amortization of deferred acquisition costs

  1,317      1,362      1,274           

Other operating expenses

  1,386      1,315      1,324           

Interest

  183      166      170           

 

 

Total

  8,477      8,649      8,497           

 

 

Income before income tax

  1,215      1,283      867           

Income tax expense

  (322   (363   (242)          

 

 

Income from continuing operations

  893      920      625           

Discontinued operations, net

  (197   22      8           

 

 

Net income

  696      942      633           

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (71   (95   (63)          

 

 

Net income attributable to Loews Corporation

$ 625    $ 847    $ 570           

 

 

2014 Compared with 2013

Income from continuing operations decreased $27 million in 2014 as compared with 2013 due to lower net investment income of $215 million, primarily driven by reduced limited partnership results, lower favorable net prior year development and a $31 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) loss on the coinsurance transaction related to the sale of CNA’s annuity and pension deposit business. These decreases were partially offset by an increase of $38 million ($22 million after tax and noncontrolling interests) in investment gains, improved current accident year underwriting results and the prior year impact of a $111 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) deferred gain under retroactive reinsurance accounting related to the Loss Portfolio Transfer. See the Investments section of this MD&A for further discussion of net realized investment results and net investment income. Further information on net prior year development for 2014 and 2013 is included in Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

2013 Compared with 2012

Income from continuing operations increased $295 million in 2013 as compared with 2012. Net investment income increased $172 million, primarily driven by a significant increase in limited partnership results. This increase was partially offset by a decrease of $35 million ($20 million after tax and noncontrolling interests) in investment gains. See the Investments section of this MD&A for further discussion of net realized investment results and net investment income. Insurance premiums increased $390 million, including an increase of $241 million related to Hardy, which was acquired in July of 2012. Insurance claims and policyholders’ benefits increased $77 million, primarily due to the impact of the $111 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) deferred gain under retroactive reinsurance accounting related to the Loss Portfolio Transfer and lower aggregate favorable net prior year development, partially offset by lower catastrophe impacts. Further information on net prior year development for 2013 and 2012 is included in Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

 

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As a result of realigned management responsibilities at CNA, we revised the CNA related segments in the fourth quarter of 2014 to Specialty, Commercial, International and Other Non-Core. Results of CNA Europe and Canada that were previously included in the Specialty and Commercial segments and results of Hardy that were previously included in the Other Non-Core segment are now included in the International segment. Prior period segment disclosures have been conformed to the current year presentation.

CNA Property and Casualty Insurance Operations

CNA’s property and casualty insurance operations consist of professional, financial, specialty property and casualty products and services and commercial insurance and risk management products.

In evaluating the results of the property and casualty businesses, CNA utilizes the loss ratio, the expense ratio, the dividend ratio and the combined ratio. These ratios are calculated using GAAP financial results. The loss ratio is the percentage of net incurred claim and claim adjustment expenses to net earned premiums. The expense ratio is the percentage of insurance underwriting and acquisition expenses, including the amortization of deferred acquisition costs, to net earned premiums. The dividend ratio is the ratio of policyholders’ dividends incurred to net earned premiums. The combined ratio is the sum of the loss, expense and dividend ratios.

The following table summarizes the results of CNA’s property and casualty operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

 

Year Ended December 31, 2014 Specialty   Commercial    International          Total       
(In millions, except %)                        

Net written premiums

  $      2,839      $      2,817      $         880      $      6,536   

Net earned premiums

  2,838      2,906      913      6,657   

Net investment income

  560      723      61      1,344   

Net operating income

  569      276      63      908   

Net realized investment gains (losses)

  9      9      (1   17   

Net income

  578      285      62      925   

Ratios:

Loss and loss adjustment expense

  57.3   75.3   53.5   64.6

Expense

  30.1      33.7      38.9      32.9   

Dividend

  0.2      0.3      0.2   

 

Combined

  87.6   109.3   92.4   97.7

 

Year Ended December 31, 2013                        

 

Net written premiums

  $      2,880      $      2,960      $         959      $      6,799   

Net earned premiums

  2,795      3,004      916      6,715   

Net investment income

  629      899      60      1,588   

Net operating income

  600      403      62      1,065   

Net realized investment gains (losses)

  (2   (9   3      (8

Net income

  598      394      65      1,057   

Ratios:

Loss and loss adjustment expense

  57.0   75.2   53.4   64.6

Expense

  29.9      34.0      39.7      33.1   

Dividend

  0.2      0.3      0.2   

 

Combined

  87.1   109.5   93.1   97.9

 

 

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Year Ended December 31, 2012 Specialty    Commercial        International     Total     

 

(In millions, except %)                        

Net written premiums

  $      2,733      $      3,033      $         648      $      6,414   

Net earned premiums

  2,709      2,968      647      6,324   

Net investment income

  564      826      59      1,449   

Net operating income

  415      221      46      682   

Net realized investment gains

  10      20      5      35   

Net income

  425      241      51      717   

Ratios:

Loss and loss adjustment expense

  64.4   79.9   55.8   70.8

Expense

  31.5      35.4      38.1      34.0   

Dividend

  0.1      0.4      0.2   

 

Combined

  96.0   115.7   93.9   105.0

 

2014 Compared with 2013

Net written premiums decreased $263 million in 2014 as compared with 2013. The decrease in net written premiums was primarily driven by a lower level of new business, reflecting competitive market conditions in Commercial and Specialty, underwriting actions taken in certain business classes in Commercial and a 2013 commutation by Hardy, partially offset by continued rate increases in Commercial. Net earned premiums decreased $58 million in 2014 as compared with 2013, consistent with decreases in net written premiums.

Specialty’s average rate increased 3% in 2014 as compared with an increase of 6% in 2013, for the policies that renewed in each period. Retention of 86% and 85% was achieved in each period. Commercial’s average rate increased 5% in 2014 as compared with an increase of 9% in 2013, for the policies that renewed in each period. Retention of 74% was achieved in each period. International’s average rate decreased 1% in 2014 as compared with an increase of 1% in 2013, for the policies that renewed in each period. Retention of 74% and 79% was achieved in each period.

Net operating income decreased $157 million in 2014 as compared to 2013, primarily due to lower net investment income, less favorable net prior year development and a legal settlement benefit of $28 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) in 2013 for Commercial, partially offset by improved current accident year underwriting results in Specialty and Commercial. Catastrophe losses were $92 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) in 2014 as compared to $100 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) in 2013.

Favorable net prior year development decreased by $105 million, from $155 million in 2013 to $50 million in 2014. Further information on net prior year development is included in Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

Specialty’s combined ratio increased 0.5 points in 2014 as compared with 2013. The loss ratio increased 0.3 points due to less favorable net prior year development, partially offset by improvement in the current accident year loss ratio.

Commercial’s combined ratio and loss ratio in 2014 were largely consistent with 2013. The expense ratio improved 0.3 points in 2014 as compared with 2013, primarily due to the favorable impact of recoveries on insurance receivables written off in prior years.

International’s combined ratio improved 0.7 points in 2014 as compared with 2013. The loss ratio increased 0.1 points, due to the higher current accident year loss ratio, substantially offset by the impact of commutations. The expense ratio improved 0.8 points in 2014 as compared with 2013, primarily due to decreased acquisition expenses.

 

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2013 Compared with 2012

Net written premiums increased $385 million in 2013 as compared with 2012, including an increase of $279 million in International related to Hardy. Excluding Hardy, the increase in net written premiums was primarily driven by increased rate, partially offset by underwriting actions taken in certain business classes in Commercial. Net earned premiums increased $391 million in 2013 as compared with 2012, including $241 million in International related to Hardy. Excluding Hardy, the increase in net earned premiums was consistent with increases in net written premiums.

Specialty’s average rate increased 6% in 2013 as compared with an increase of 5% in 2012, for the policies that renewed in each period. Retention of 85% and 86% was achieved in each period. Commercial’s average rate increased 9% in 2013 as compared with an increase of 7% in 2012, for the policies that renewed in each period. Retention of 74% and 77% was achieved in each period. International’s average rate increased 1% in 2013 as compared with an increase of 2% in 2012 for the policies that renewed in each period. Retention of 79% and 80% was achieved in each period.

Net operating income increased $383 million in 2013 as compared to 2012, primarily due to improved underwriting results, higher net investment income and a legal settlement benefit of $28 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) in 2013 for Commercial. These favorable impacts were partially offset by unfavorable net prior year development in 2013 for Commercial. Catastrophe losses were $100 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) in 2013 as compared to $243 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) in 2012.

The combined ratio improved 7.1 points in 2013 as compared to 2012. The loss ratio improved 6.2 points in 2013 as compared to 2012, primarily due to an improved current accident year non-catastrophe loss ratio and decreased catastrophe losses in Commercial and International. The expense ratio improved by 0.9 points, primarily due to the impact of lower underwriting expenses and a higher net earned premium base in Specialty and decreased expenses including favorable changes in estimates of insurance assessment liabilities in Commercial, partially offset by increased expenses in International.

Favorable net prior year development decreased by $84 million, from $239 million in 2012 to $155 million in 2013. Further information on net prior year development is included in Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

Other Non-Core Operations

Other Non-Core primarily includes the results of CNA’s individual and group long term care businesses, which are in run-off and also includes certain CNA corporate expenses, including interest on corporate debt and the results of certain property and casualty business in run-off, including CNA Re and A&EP. CNA’s group long term care business, while considered non-core, currently continues to accept new employees in existing groups.

 

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The following table summarizes the results of CNA’s Other Non-Core operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

 

Year Ended December 31, 2014     Life & Group
    Non-Core
       Other   

  Other   

  Non-Core   

(In millions)            

Net earned premiums

  $           556       $           556  

Net investment income

    700     $             23       723  

Net operating loss

    (62 )     (76 )     (138 )

Net realized investment gains

    6       9       15  

Net loss from continuing operations

    (56 )     (67 )     (123 )
Year Ended December 31, 2013                  

Net earned premiums

  $ 559       $ 559  

Net investment income

    662     $ 32       694  

Net operating loss

    (66 )     (182 )     (248 )

Net realized investment gains

    15       3       18  

Net loss from continuing operations

    (51 )     (179 )     (230 )
Year Ended December 31, 2012                  

Net earned premiums

  $         559       $       559  

Net investment income

    629     $             32       661  

Net operating loss

    (83 )     (66 )     (149 )

Net realized investment losses

    (5 )       (5 )

Net loss from continuing operations

    (88 )     (66 )     (154 )

2014 Compared with 2013

Results from continuing operations increased $107 million in 2014 as compared with 2013, primarily driven by the prior year impact of a $111 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) deferred gain under retroactive reinsurance accounting related to the Loss Portfolio Transfer, as further discussed in Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8. Results in 2014 included a $50 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) benefit related to a postretirement plan curtailment, substantially offset by a $49 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) lump sum pension plan settlement, as further discussed in Note 15 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

Results in CNA’s long term care and life settlement business improved in 2014, but that improvement was substantially offset by the $31 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) loss on the coinsurance transaction related to the sale of CNA’s annuity and pension deposit business and results for CNA’s remaining structured settlements. The improved results in long term care were driven by higher net investment income attributable to a higher invested asset base and portfolio allocation of tax-exempt bonds, rate increase actions and the slightly more favorable net morbidity and persistency.

2013 Compared with 2012

Results from continuing operations decreased $76 million in 2013 as compared with 2012, primarily driven by the impact of the deferred gain under retroactive reinsurance accounting related to the Loss Portfolio Transfer, as discussed above, partially offset by higher net investment income.

CNA’s long term care business was positively impacted in 2013 by the effect of rate increase actions and long term care claim reserve strengthening in 2012, partially offset by unfavorable morbidity.

 

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Diamond Offshore

Diamond Offshore’s pretax income is primarily a function of contract drilling revenue earned less contract drilling expenses incurred or recognized. The two most significant variables affecting Diamond Offshore’s revenues are dayrates for rigs and rig utilization rates, each of which is a function of rig supply and demand in the marketplace. These factors are not within Diamond Offshore’s control and are difficult to predict. Revenue from dayrate drilling contracts are generally recognized as services are performed, consequently, when a rig is idle, no dayrate is earned and revenue will decrease as a result. Revenues can also be affected as a result of the acquisition or disposal of rigs, rig mobilizations, required surveys and shipyard projects. In connection with certain drilling contracts, Diamond Offshore may receive fees for the mobilization of equipment. In addition, some of Diamond Offshore’s drilling contracts require downtime before the start of the contract to prepare the rig to meet customer requirements for which it may or may not be compensated.

Diamond Offshore’s pretax income is also a function of varying levels of operating expenses. Operating expenses generally are not affected by changes in dayrates, and short term reductions in utilization do not necessarily result in lower operating expenses. For instance, if a rig is to be idle for a short period of time, few decreases in operating expenses may actually occur since the rig is typically maintained in a prepared or “warm stacked” state with a full crew. In addition, when a rig is idle, Diamond Offshore is responsible for certain operating expenses such as rig fuel and supply boat costs, which are typically costs of the operator when a rig is under contract. However, if the rig is to be idle for an extended period of time, Diamond Offshore may reduce the size of a rig’s crew and take steps to “cold stack” the rig, which lowers expenses and partially offsets the impact on pretax income.

Operating expenses represent all direct and indirect costs associated with the operation and maintenance of Diamond Offshore’s drilling equipment. The principal components of Diamond Offshore’s operating costs are, among other things, direct and indirect costs of labor and benefits, repairs and maintenance, freight, regulatory inspections, boat and helicopter rentals and insurance. Labor and repair and maintenance costs represent the most significant components of Diamond Offshore’s operating expenses. In general, labor costs increase primarily due to higher salary levels, rig staffing requirements and costs associated with labor regulations in the geographic regions in which Diamond Offshore’s rigs operate. In addition, the costs associated with training new and seasoned employees can be significant. Costs to repair and maintain equipment fluctuate depending upon the type of activity the drilling rig is performing, as well as the age and condition of the equipment and the regions in which Diamond Offshore’s rigs are working.

Pretax income is negatively impacted when Diamond Offshore performs certain regulatory inspections, which it refers to as a 5-year survey, or special survey, that are due every five years for each of Diamond Offshore’s rigs. Operating revenue decreases because these special surveys are generally performed during scheduled downtime in a shipyard. Operating expenses increase as a result of these special surveys due to the cost to mobilize the rigs to a shipyard, inspection costs incurred and repair and maintenance costs which are recognized as incurred. Repair and maintenance activities may result from the special survey or may have been previously planned to take place during this mandatory downtime. The number of rigs undergoing a 5-year survey will vary from year to year, as well as from quarter to quarter.

In addition, pretax income may also be negatively impacted by intermediate surveys, which are performed at interim periods between 5-year surveys. Intermediate surveys are generally less extensive in duration and scope than a 5-year survey. Although an intermediate survey may require some downtime for the drilling rig, it normally does not require dry-docking or shipyard time, except for rigs, generally older than 15 years that are located in the United Kingdom (“U.K.”) and Norwegian sectors of the North Sea.

During 2015, two of Diamond Offshore’s rigs will require 5-year surveys, which it expects to result in approximately 120 days of downtime in the aggregate. Diamond Offshore expects to spend an additional approximately 980 days for intermediate surveys, the mobilization of rigs, contract acceptance testing and extended maintenance projects, including days associated with mobilization and acceptance testing for the recently delivered Ocean BlackHornet and Ocean BlackRhino (approximately 195 days in the aggregate) and the Ocean BlackLion (approximately 240 days), which is under construction and expected to be delivered late in the first quarter of 2015. Diamond Offshore expects the Ocean Confidence to be unavailable through the first quarter of 2015 (approximately 90 days) as it completes its service-life-extension project. Diamond Offshore can provide no assurance as to the

 

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exact timing and/or duration of downtime associated with regulatory inspections, planned rig mobilizations and other shipyard projects.

Diamond Offshore is self-insured for physical damage to rigs and equipment caused by named windstorms in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico (“GOM”). If a named windstorm in the GOM causes significant damage to Diamond Offshore’s rigs or equipment, it could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Under its insurance policy that expires on May 1, 2015, Diamond Offshore carries physical damage insurance for certain losses other than those caused by named windstorms in the GOM for which its deductible for physical damage is $25 million per occurrence. Diamond Offshore does not typically retain loss-of-hire insurance policies to cover its rigs.

In addition, under its current insurance policy, Diamond Offshore carries marine liability insurance covering certain legal liabilities, including coverage for certain personal injury claims, and generally covering liabilities arising out of or relating to pollution and/or environmental risk. Diamond Offshore believes that the policy limit for its marine liability insurance is within the range that is customary for companies of its size in the offshore drilling industry and is appropriate for Diamond Offshore’s business. Diamond Offshore’s deductibles for marine liability coverage, including for personal injury claims, are $25 million for the first occurrence and vary in amounts ranging between $5 million and, if aggregate claims exceed certain thresholds, up to $100 million for each subsequent occurrence, depending on the nature, severity and frequency of claims that might arise during the policy year.

Recent Developments

Market fundamentals in the oil and gas industry continued to deteriorate in the fourth quarter of 2014 and into 2015. The dramatic decline in oil prices since the summer of 2014 has led many of Diamond Offshore’s customers or potential customers to announce significant cutbacks to their 2015 capital spending plans. These adverse market conditions have resulted in reduced demand for offshore drilling rigs by Diamond Offshore’s customers and an oversupply of rigs available for charter. Based on these factors, industry analysts predict dayrates to decline further as competition to keep rigs active continues to intensify. As of February 9, 2015, eight of Diamond Offshore’s rigs were not subject to a drilling contract with a customer, including six rigs that have been cold stacked or are in the process of being cold stacked.

In declining markets, rig tenders by Diamond Offshore’s customers may be for shorter terms or on a well-to-well basis and increased competition for the tenders may drive down contract dayrates. It is also not unusual for adverse market conditions to result in the migration of some ultra-deepwater rigs to work in deepwater and, likewise, some deepwater rigs to compete against mid-water rigs, or even ultra-deepwater rigs to work in some mid-water markets. This has had and could continue to have an adverse impact on Diamond Offshore’s fleet, and particularly lower specification mid-water rigs, as indicated by the retirement of six of Diamond Offshore’s mid-water semisubmersible rigs during 2014, three of which have since been scrapped.

Another characteristic of the depressed market conditions in the offshore drilling industry is that certain customers may attempt to renegotiate or terminate drilling contracts. Some of Diamond Offshore’s drilling contracts, particularly contracts with national oil companies or government-controlled entities, permit the customer to terminate the contract after specified notice periods, sometimes resulting in no payment to Diamond Offshore or sometimes resulting in a contractually specified termination amount, which may not fully compensate Diamond Offshore for the loss of the contract. During depressed market conditions, certain customers may be more motivated to utilize such contract clauses to seek to renegotiate or terminate a drilling contract. In addition, in depressed conditions certain customers may be motivated to claim that Diamond Offshore has breached provisions of its drilling contracts in order to avoid their obligations to Diamond Offshore under circumstances where it believes it is in compliance with the contracts. The early termination of a contract may result in a rig being idle for an extended period of time, which could adversely affect Diamond Offshore’s business. When a customer terminates a contract prior to the contract’s scheduled expiration, the contract backlog is adversely impacted.

On February 20, 2015, a representative of PEMEX—Exploración y Producción, (“PEMEX”), verbally informed Diamond Offshore of PEMEX’s intention to exercise its contractual right to terminate its drilling contracts on the Ocean Ambassador, the Ocean Nugget and the Ocean Summit, and to cancel its drilling contract on the Ocean

 

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Lexington, which contract was scheduled to begin in September 2015. Diamond Offshore has not received written notice of termination or cancellation. Diamond Offshore is in discussions with PEMEX regarding the rigs.

In addition, Petróleo Brasileiro S.A., (“Petrobras”), recently notified Diamond Offshore that it has a right to terminate the drilling contract on the Ocean Baroness and has verbally informed Diamond Offshore that it does not intend to continue to use the rig. Diamond Offshore is currently in discussions with Petrobras regarding the rig.

The impact of the depressed market conditions in the offshore drilling industry has materially impacted Diamond Offshore’s results of operations and cash flows in 2014. Diamond Offshore currently expects that these adverse conditions will continue through 2015 and likely into 2016 or even longer. The continuation of these conditions could result in more of Diamond Offshore’s rigs being without contracts and/or cold stacked and could further materially and adversely affect its business. When Diamond Offshore cold stacks a rig, they evaluate the rig for impairment.

Although these general market conditions impact all segments of the offshore drilling market, the following discussion addresses market conditions within segments of the floater market.

Globally, the ultra-deepwater and deepwater floater markets continue to weaken. The continuing oversupply of rigs, combined with diminished demand, has resulted in further declines in dayrates and the stacking of rigs in all asset classes, and industry reports expect offshore drillers to continue to scrap older, lower specification rigs. During 2014, there were few bidding opportunities, and the outlook for 2015 is pessimistic. Competition for a limited number of jobs has been intense, with numerous offshore drillers vying for the same opportunities, including some competitors bidding multiple rigs on the same bid, and operators attempting to sublet previously contracted rigs for which capital spending programs have been delayed and/or canceled.

The influx of newbuilds into the market, combined with established rigs that came off contract in 2014 or are expected to complete contracts during 2015 and 2016, is expected to contribute to the further weakening of the ultra-deepwater and deepwater floater markets. Based on industry data, there are approximately 59 competitive, or non-owner-operated, newbuild floaters on order, and an estimated 29 additional rigs potentially to be built on behalf of Petrobras, which is currently Diamond Offshore’s largest single customer based on annual consolidated revenues. Based on industry reports, of the competitive rigs, 16 of the 31 newbuilds scheduled for delivery in 2015, as well as nine of the 14 newbuilds scheduled for delivery in 2016, are not yet contracted for future work.

Conditions in the mid-water market have varied by region, but have generally been adversely impacted by lower demand, the waterfall effect of declining dayrates in the ultra-deepwater and deepwater markets, the challenges experienced by lower specification rigs in this segment as a result of growing regulatory demands and more complex customer specifications, and the intensified competition resulting from the migration of some deepwater and ultra-deepwater rigs to compete against mid-water rigs. As higher specification rigs take the place of lower specification rigs, some lower specification rigs are expected to be cold stacked or ultimately scrapped.

Impact of changes in tax laws or their interpretation

Diamond Offshore operates through various subsidiaries in a number of countries throughout the world. As a result, it is subject to highly complex tax laws, treaties and regulations in the jurisdictions in which it operates, which may change and are subject to interpretation. Changes in laws, treaties and regulations and the interpretation of such laws, treaties and regulations may put Diamond Offshore at risk for future tax assessments and liabilities which could be substantial and could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition and our results of operations and cash flows. Further information is provided in Notes 11 and 19 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

Contract Drilling Backlog

The following table reflects Diamond Offshore’s contract drilling backlog as of February 9, 2015, October 21, 2014 (the date reported in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014) and February 5, 2014 (the date reported in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013). Contract drilling backlog as presented below includes only firm commitments (typically represented by signed

 

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contracts) and is calculated by multiplying the contracted operating dayrate by the firm contract period and adding one-half of any potential rig performance bonuses. Diamond Offshore’s calculation also assumes full utilization of its drilling equipment for the contract period (excluding scheduled shipyard and survey days); however, the amount of actual revenue earned and the actual periods during which revenues are earned will be different than the amounts and periods shown in the tables below due to various factors. Utilization rates, which generally approach 92% - 98% during contracted periods, can be adversely impacted by downtime due to various operating factors including, but not limited to, weather conditions and unscheduled repairs and maintenance. Contract drilling backlog excludes revenues for mobilization, demobilization, contract preparation and customer reimbursables. No revenue is generally earned during periods of downtime for regulatory surveys. Changes in Diamond Offshore’s contract drilling backlog between periods are generally a function of the performance of work on term contracts, as well as the extension or modification of existing term contracts and the execution of additional contracts. In addition, under certain circumstances, Diamond Offshore’s customers may seek to terminate or renegotiate their contracts.

 

  February 9,
2015
  October 21,
2014
  February 5,    
2014    
 

 

 
(In millions)            

Floaters:

Ultra-Deepwater (a) (b)

$ 5,390       $ 6,090       $ 4,111         

Deepwater (c)

  748         773         794         

Mid-Water (d) (e) (f)

  611         1,149         1,744         

 

 

Total Floaters

  6,749         8,012         6,649         

Jack-ups (g)

  91         180         180         

 

 

Total

$ 6,840       $ 8,192       $ 6,829         

 

 

 

(a)

As of February 9, 2015, ultra-deepwater floaters includes (i) $1.3 billion attributable to contracted operations offshore Brazil for the years 2015 to 2018; (ii) $584 million attributable to future work for the Ocean BlackLion for the years 2015 to 2019, which is under construction; and (iii) $641 million for the years 2016 to 2019 attributable to future work for the semisubmersible Ocean GreatWhite, which is under construction.

(b)

As of February 9, 2015, ultra-deepwater floaters excludes $408 million attributable to the Ocean Baroness contracted to Petrobras. See Recent Developments above.

(c)

As of February 9, 2015, deepwater floaters includes $196 million attributable to contracted operations offshore Brazil for the years 2015 to 2016.

(d)

As of October 21, 2014, mid-water floaters excludes $107 million in backlog attributable to contracted work for the Ocean Vanguard that is included in the February 5, 2014 backlog. As previously reported, in the second quarter of 2014, Statoil ASA (“Statoil”), the customer for the Ocean Vanguard, terminated its drilling contract, which was estimated to conclude in accordance with its terms in February of 2015. Diamond Offshore does not believe that Statoil had a valid basis for terminating the contract and it has filed a lawsuit against Statoil in Norway to collect damages resulting from the unlawful termination.

(e)

As of February 9, 2015, mid-water floaters (i) includes $21 million attributable to contracted operations offshore Brazil for the year 2015 and (ii) excludes $53 million for the year 2015 that was originally attributable to contracted work for the Ocean Nomad and previously reported as backlog for 2015. On February 12, 2015, Diamond Offshore received notice of termination of its drilling contract from Dana Petroleum (E&P) Limited (“Dana”), the customer for the Ocean Nomad. The drilling contract provides for a dayrate of approximately $330,000 and was estimated to conclude in accordance with its terms in August of 2015. Diamond Offshore does not believe that Dana had a valid basis for terminating the contract and Diamond Offshore intends to defend its rights under the contract.

(f)

As of February 9, 2015, mid-water floaters excludes $209 million attributable to the Ocean Ambassador and the Ocean Lexington. See Recent Developments above.

(g)

As of February 9, 2015, jack-ups excludes $49 million attributable to the Ocean Nugget and the Ocean Summit. See Recent Developments above.

 

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The following table reflects the amount of Diamond Offshore’s contract drilling backlog by year as of February 9, 2015:

 

Year Ended December 31 Total   2015   2016   2017   2018 – 2020  

 

 
(In millions)                    

Floaters:

Ultra-Deepwater (a) (b)

$     5,390       $     1,397       $     1,095       $     1,199       $     1,699        

Deepwater (c)

  748         492         208         48      

Mid-Water (d) (e)

  611         343         147         121      

 

 

 Total Floaters

  6,749         2,232         1,450         1,368         1,699        

Jack-ups (f)

  91         81         10      

 

 

Total

$ 6,840       $ 2,313       $ 1,460       $ 1,368       $ 1,699        

 

 

 

(a)

As of February 9, 2015, ultra-deepwater floaters includes (i) $452 million, $333 million, $332 million and $159 million for the years 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018, attributable to contracted operations offshore Brazil; (ii) $25 million, $146 million and $146 million for the years 2015, 2016 and 2017 and $267 million in the aggregate for the years 2018 to 2019, attributable to future work for the Ocean BlackLion, which is under construction; and (iii) $90 million for the year 2016, $214 million for the year 2017 and $337 million in the aggregate for the years 2018 to 2019 attributable to future work for the Ocean GreatWhite, which is under construction.

(b)

As of February 9, 2015, ultra-deepwater floaters excludes $77 million, $113 million, $113 million and $105 million for the years 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 attributable to the Ocean Baroness contracted to Petrobras. See Recent Developments above.

(c)

As of February 9, 2015, deepwater floaters includes $134 million and $62 million for the years 2015 and 2016, attributable to contracted operations offshore Brazil.

(d)

As of February 9, 2015, mid-water floaters (i) includes $21 million for the year 2015 attributable to contracted operations offshore Brazil and (ii) excludes $53 million for the year 2015 that was originally attributable to contracted work for the Ocean Nomad and previously reported as backlog for 2015. On February 12, 2015, Diamond Offshore received notice of termination of its drilling contract from Dana, the customer for the Ocean Nomad. The drilling contract provides for a dayrate of approximately $330,000 and was estimated to conclude in accordance with its terms in August of 2015. Diamond Offshore does not believe that Dana had a valid basis for terminating the contract and Diamond Offshore intends to defend its rights under the contract.

(e)

As of February 9, 2015, mid-water floaters excludes $70 million, $67 million, $58 million and $14 million for the years 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 attributable to the Ocean Ambassador and the Ocean Lexington. See Recent Developments above.

(f)

As of February 9, 2015, jack-ups excludes $27 million and $22 million for the years 2015 and 2016 attributable to the Ocean Nugget and the Ocean Summit. See Recent Developments above.

The following table reflects the percentage of rig days committed by year as of February 9, 2015. The percentage of rig days committed is calculated as the ratio of total days committed under contracts, as well as scheduled shipyard, survey and mobilization days for all rigs in Diamond Offshore’s fleet, to total available days (number of rigs multiplied by the number of days in a particular year). Total available days have been calculated based on the expected final commissioning dates for both rigs under construction.

 

Year Ended December 31 2015 (a) (b)     2016 (a) (b)     2017 (b)     2018 – 2020 (b)    

 

 

Floaters:

Ultra-Deepwater

  85%       63%       54%       25%       

Deepwater

  55%       21%       5%    

Mid-Water

  40%       11%       9%    

Total Floaters

  63%       37%       28%       11%       

Jack-ups

  32%       3%    

 

(a)

As of February 9, 2015, includes approximately 1,100 and 560 currently known, scheduled shipyard days for rig commissioning, contract preparation, surveys and extended maintenance projects, as well as rig mobilization days for 2015 and 2016.

(b)

Excludes previously reported rig days attributable to the Ocean Baroness contracted to Petrobras and the Ocean Ambassador, the Ocean Nugget, the Ocean Summit and the Ocean Lexington contracted to PEMEX. See Recent Developments above.

 

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Dayrate and Utilization Statistics

 

Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012      

 

 

Revenue earning days (a)

Floaters:

Ultra-Deepwater

  2,151        2,392        2,475        

Deepwater

  1,206        1,530        1,605        

Mid-Water

  3,969        4,186        4,639        

Jack-ups (b)

  1,845        1,949        1,753        

Utilization (c)

Floaters:

Ultra-Deepwater

  65%        82%        85%        

Deepwater

  55%        84%        88%        

Mid-Water

  61%        64%        68%        

Jack-ups (d)

  78%        76%        53%        

Average daily revenue (e)

Floaters:

Ultra-Deepwater

$ 459,100      $ 357,300      $ 364,700        

Deepwater

  409,800        403,300        372,400        

Mid-Water

  271,300        286,200        274,900        

Jack-ups

  96,700        89,300        91,500        

 

(a)

A revenue earning day is defined as a 24-hour period during which a rig earns a dayrate after commencement of operations and excludes mobilization, demobilization and contract preparation days.

(b)

Revenue earning days for the year ended December 31, 2012 included approximately 87 days earned by Diamond Offshore’s jack-up rigs during the period prior to being sold in 2012.

(c)

Utilization is calculated as the ratio of total revenue earning days divided by the total calendar days in the period for all rigs in Diamond Offshore’s fleet (including cold stacked rigs, but excluding rigs under construction). As of December 31, 2014, six mid-water semisubmersible drilling rigs were cold stacked, three of which Diamond Offshore plans to scrap.

(d)

Utilization for Diamond Offshore’s jack-up rigs would have been 87% for the year ended December 31, 2012, excluding revenue earning days and total calendar days associated with rigs that were sold in 2012.

(e)

Average daily revenue is defined as total contract drilling revenue per revenue earning day including mobilization, demobilization and contract preparation revenue.

 

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Results of Operations

The following table summarizes the results of operations for Diamond Offshore for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 as presented in Note 22 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012      

 

 
(In millions)            

Revenues:

Contract drilling revenues

$       2,737     $       2,844     $       2,936        

Net investment income

            5        

Other revenues

  87       81       131        

 

 

Total

  2,825       2,926       3,072        

 

 

Expenses:

Contract drilling expenses

  1,524       1,573       1,537        

Other operating expenses

  725       554       572        

Interest

  62       25       46        

 

 

Total

  2,311       2,152       2,155        

 

 

Income before income tax

  514       774       917        

Income tax expense

  (142)      (245)      (223)       

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (189)      (272)      (357)       

 

 

Net income attributable to Loews Corporation

$ 183     $ 257     $ 337        

 

 

2014 Compared with 2013

Contract drilling revenue decreased $107 million in 2014 as compared with 2013. Contract drilling revenue decreased primarily due to fewer overall revenue earning days, partially offset by higher average daily revenue primarily earned by ultra-deepwater floaters.

Revenue generated by ultra-deepwater floaters increased $133 million in 2014 as compared with 2013 as a result of higher average daily revenue of $219 million, including the recognition of incremental mobilization and contract preparation fees of $51 million, partially offset by a decrease in utilization of $86 million. Average daily revenue increased primarily due to several rigs operating under higher dayrates as compared to 2013. The reduction in revenue earning days is primarily due to incremental downtime for inspections and shipyard projects, including the Ocean Confidence life-extension project, downtime in between contracts and rig mobilizations, partially offset by a reduction in unscheduled downtime for repairs and incremental revenue earning days for the Ocean BlackHawk which was placed in service in 2014.

Revenue generated by deepwater floaters decreased $123 million in 2014 as compared with 2013 primarily due to lower utilization of $131 million, partially offset by higher average daily revenue of $8 million which reflected an increase in amortized mobilization and contract preparation revenue. The decrease in revenue earning days was the result of unplanned downtime associated with the warm stacking of rigs between contracts and incremental scheduled downtime for surveys and shipyard projects and rig mobilizations, partially offset by incremental revenue earning days for the Ocean Onyx which was placed into service during 2014.

Revenue generated by mid-water floaters decreased $121 million in 2014 as compared with 2013 primarily due to lower utilization of $62 million and lower average daily revenue of $59 million. The decrease in revenue earning days reflects the net impact of unplanned downtime associated with the cold stacking of rigs, unpaid equipment repairs and downtime between contracts, partially offset by a reduction in planned downtime for shipyard projects and regulatory inspections. The decrease in average daily revenue primarily reflects lower amortized mobilization and contract preparation revenue of $36 million and the Ocean Quest operating in Vietnam at a lower dayrate in 2014 as compared with 2013, partially offset by higher dayrates earned by Diamond Offshore’s North Sea rigs.

 

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Revenue generated by jack-up rigs increased $4 million in 2014 as compared with 2013 primarily due to an increase in average daily revenue of $14 million as a result of higher dayrates earned by several jack-up rigs during 2014, partially offset by lower utilization of $9 million compared to the prior year period.

Net income decreased $74 million in 2014 as compared with 2013 primarily reflecting the decrease in revenue, the impact of a $109 million impairment loss ($55 million after tax and noncontrolling interests) related to the carrying value of Diamond Offshore’s semisubmersible rigs, higher general and administrative expense and depreciation expense, as well as an increase in interest expense related to the $1.0 billion of senior unsecured notes issued in November of 2013. General and administrative costs for 2014 include higher employee compensation and termination benefits paid to certain current and former key executives. These increases were partially offset by a $9 million gain ($3 million after tax and noncontrolling interests) recognized on the sale of the previously held for sale jack-up rig Ocean Spartan in the second quarter of 2014. Diamond Offshore recognized a charge for an uncollectible receivable of $23 million ($9 million after tax and noncontrolling interests) in 2013.

Diamond Offshore’s effective tax rate decreased in 2014 as compared with 2013 primarily due to differences in the mix of Diamond Offshore’s domestic and international pretax earnings and losses. Also contributing to the lower 2014 effective tax rate was the reversal of $55 million ($27 million after noncontrolling interests) of reserves for uncertain tax positions in various foreign jurisdictions which were settled in Diamond Offshore’s favor or for which the statute of limitations had expired. The 2013 period was negatively impacted by a provision of $57 million ($27 million after noncontrolling interests) related to an uncertain tax position in Egypt, partially offset by the impact of The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, which reduced income tax expense by $28 million ($13 million after noncontrolling interests).

As Diamond Offshore’s rigs frequently operate in different tax jurisdictions as they move from contract to contract, its effective tax rate can fluctuate substantially and its historical effective tax rates may not be sustainable and could increase materially.

2013 Compared with 2012

Contract drilling revenue decreased $92 million in 2013 as compared with 2012, while contract drilling expense increased $36 million during the same period. Contract drilling revenue was negatively impacted by a decrease in revenue earned by Diamond Offshore’s ultra-deepwater and mid-water fleets, partially offset by favorable revenue variances for its deepwater and jack-up rigs. The increase in contract drilling expense reflects higher labor and personnel related costs primarily as a result of mid-2013 pay increases and costs associated with additional crews for Diamond Offshore’s new rigs expected to be delivered in 2014 and for the Ocean Onyx delivered in the fourth quarter of 2013, higher repairs and maintenance and inspection costs, partially offset by decreased mobilization and freight costs.

Revenue generated by ultra-deepwater floaters decreased $48 million in 2013 as compared with 2012, due to decreased utilization of $30 million and lower average daily revenue of $18 million. The decrease in revenue earning days is primarily due to incremental unplanned downtime, partially offset by a reduction in downtime for shipyard projects and inspections. The decrease in average daily revenue is primarily due to a contract extension for the Ocean Rover at a significantly lower dayrate than previously earned and an $18 million decrease in amortized mobilization revenue. However, average daily revenue for 2013 was favorably impacted by $25 million of revenue recognized in connection with a settlement agreement entered into with a customer. The settlement agreement related to amounts due to Diamond Offshore during 2013 for which revenue was not recognized due to the financial condition of the customer. Amortized mobilization revenue decreased primarily due to the recognition of mobilization revenue in the 2012 period associated with the Ocean Monarch’s mobilization to Vietnam.

Revenue generated by deepwater floaters increased $19 million in 2013 as compared with 2012, as a result of higher average daily revenue of $47 million, partially offset by a decrease in utilization of $28 million. Average daily revenue increased in 2013 primarily due to the Ocean Valiant and Ocean Victory both working at significantly higher dayrates than those rigs earned in 2012, partially offset by lower amortized mobilization revenue of $5 million. The decline in revenue earning days is due to incremental unscheduled downtime for repairs, scheduled shipyard projects and mobilization of the Ocean America.

 

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Revenue generated by mid-water floaters decreased $77 million in 2013 as compared with 2012, as a result of decreased utilization of $124 million, partially offset by higher average daily revenue of $47 million. Revenue earning days decreased primarily due to an increase in planned downtime for shipyard inspections and projects, cold stacking of a rig and non-revenue earning days associated with two customer contracts, partially offset by fewer days for the mobilization of rigs. The increase in average daily revenue is primarily due to new contracts and contract renewals for four rigs at higher dayrates than previously earned.

Revenue generated by jack-up rigs increased $14 million in 2013 as compared with 2012, primarily due to utilization of a rig which was warm stacked in 2012 earning $26 million of revenue in 2013, partially offset by the absence of revenue attributable to six jack-up rigs that Diamond Offshore sold in 2012. These rigs earned aggregate revenue of $5 million in 2012. Revenues in 2013 were further reduced by scheduled downtime for repairs for two jack-up rigs.

Net income decreased $80 million in 2013 as compared with 2012 reflecting the decline in revenue, increase in contract drilling expense and recognition of bad debt expense of $23 million ($9 million after tax and noncontrolling interests), partially offset by lower interest expense. The decrease in interest expense is primarily due to an increase in interest capitalized on eligible construction projects in 2013, partially offset by incremental interest expense for the $1.0 billion of senior unsecured notes issued in 2013 and interest expense associated with uncertain tax positions in the Mexico tax jurisdiction. Net income for 2012 also included a $76 million gain ($32 million after tax and noncontrolling interests) on the sale of six jack-up rigs and an impairment loss of $62 million ($19 million after tax and noncontrolling interests) recognized on three mid-water floaters.

Diamond Offshore’s effective tax rate in 2013 increased as compared with 2012. The higher effective tax rate in 2013 is primarily the result of differences in the mix of Diamond Offshore’s domestic and international pretax earnings and losses, as well as the international jurisdictions in which Diamond Offshore operates and a $57 million ($27 million after noncontrolling interests) charge related to an uncertain tax position for Egyptian operations. The increase in the effective rate is partially offset by the recognition of the impact of The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, which reduced 2013 income tax expense by $28 million ($13 million after noncontrolling interests). The Act, which was signed into law on January 2, 2013, extended through 2013 several expired temporary business provisions, commonly referred to as “extenders” which were retroactively extended to the beginning of 2012.

Boardwalk Pipeline

Boardwalk Pipeline derives revenues primarily from the transportation and storage of natural gas and natural gas liquids (“NGLs”) and gathering and processing of natural gas for third parties. Transportation services consist of firm natural gas transportation, where the customer pays a capacity reservation charge to reserve pipeline capacity at receipt and delivery points along pipeline systems, plus a commodity and fuel charge on the volume of natural gas actually transported, and interruptible natural gas transportation, where the customer pays to transport gas only when capacity is available and used. Boardwalk Pipeline offers firm natural gas storage services in which the customer reserves and pays for a specific amount of storage capacity, including injection and withdrawal rights, and interruptible storage and parking and lending (“PAL”) services where the customer receives and pays for capacity only when it is available and used. Boardwalk Pipeline also transports and stores NGLs. Boardwalk Pipeline’s NGL contracts are generally fee-based and are dependent on actual volumes transported or stored, although in some cases minimum volume requirements apply. Boardwalk Pipeline’s NGL storage rates are market-based and contracts are typically fixed price arrangements with escalation clauses. Boardwalk Pipeline is not in the business of buying and selling natural gas and NGLs other than for system management purposes, but changes in the level of natural gas and NGLs prices may impact the volumes of natural gas or NGLs transported and stored on its pipeline systems. Boardwalk Pipeline’s operating costs and expenses typically do not vary significantly based upon the amount of products transported, with the exception of fuel consumed at its compressor stations.

 

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Market Conditions and Contract Renewals

Boardwalk Pipeline provides natural gas transportation services to customers that are directly connected to its pipeline system and, through interconnects with third-party pipelines, to customers that are not directly connected to its system. Transportation rates that Boardwalk Pipeline is able to charge customers are heavily influenced by longer term trends in, for example, the amount and geographical location of natural gas production and demand for gas by end-users such as power plants, petrochemical facilities and liquefied natural gas (“LNG”) export facilities. As a result of changes in longer term trends such as the development of gas production from the Marcellus and Utica production areas located in the northeastern U.S. and changes to related pipeline infrastructure, basis differentials corresponding to traditional flow patterns on Boardwalk Pipeline’s natural gas pipeline systems (generally south to north and west to east) have narrowed significantly in recent years, reducing the transportation rates and adversely impacting other contract terms that can be negotiated with customers for available transportation capacity and for contracts due for renewal for Boardwalk Pipeline’s transportation services. These conditions have had and are expected to continue to have a material adverse affect on Boardwalk Pipeline’s revenues, earnings and distributable cash flow.

A substantial portion of Boardwalk Pipeline’s transportation capacity is contracted for under firm transportation agreements. Actual revenues recognized from capacity reservation and minimum bill charges for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $887 million. Approximate projected revenues from capacity reservation and minimum bill charges under committed firm transportation agreements in place as of December 31, 2014, for each of the full years 2015 and 2016 are $910 million and $900 million. Included in these revenues for 2015 and 2016 are $4 million and $25 million, which are anticipated under executed precedent transportation agreements for projects that are subject to regulatory approval to commence construction, and these projects are subject to the risk that they may not be completed, may be impacted by significant cost overruns or may be materially changed prior to completion as a result of future developments or circumstances that Boardwalk Pipeline cannot predict at this time. Additional revenues Boardwalk Pipeline has recognized or may receive under firm transportation agreements based on actual utilization of the contracted pipeline facilities or any expected revenues for periods after the expiration dates of the existing agreements or execution of precedent agreements associated with growth projects or events that occurred subsequent to December 31, 2014 are not included in these amounts.

Each year a portion of Boardwalk Pipeline’s firm transportation agreements expire and need to be renewed or replaced. Due to the factors noted above, in recent periods Boardwalk Pipeline has generally seen the renewal of expiring transportation contracts at lower rates and for shorter terms than in the past which has materially adversely impacted transportation revenues. Capacity not renewed and available for sale on a short term basis has been and continues to be sold at rates reflective of basis spreads, which generally have been lower than historical rates, under short term firm or interruptible contracts, or in some cases not sold at all. Rates for short term and interruptible transportation services are influenced by the factors discussed above but can be more heavily affected by shorter term conditions such as current and forecasted weather. For a discussion of additional risks associated with Boardwalk Pipeline’s revenues, please see Item 1A. Risk Factors – Boardwalk Pipeline – Boardwalk Pipeline may not be able to replace expiring gas transportation contracts at attractive rates or on a long term basis and may not be able to sell short term services at attractive rates or at all due to narrower basis differentials which adversely affect the value of its transportation services.

Boardwalk Pipeline is beginning to experience an increase in demand to transport gas from north to south instead of south to north as has been the traditional flow pattern. This demand is being driven by increases in gas production from primarily the Marcellus and Utica production areas and growing demand for natural gas primarily in the Gulf Coast area from new and planned power plants, petrochemical facilities and LNG export facilities. This new flow pattern is resulting in potential growth project opportunities that require significant capital expenditures, among other things, to make parts of Boardwalk Pipeline’s system bi-directional, and in many instances, will utilize existing pipeline capacity made available by customers that have not renewed expiring contracts. These projects have lengthy planning and construction periods and as a result, will not contribute to Boardwalk Pipeline’s earnings and cash flows until they are placed into service over the next several years. In some instances the projects remain subject to regulatory approval to commence construction, and these projects are subject to the risk that they may not be completed, may be impacted by significant cost overruns or may be materially changed prior to completion as a result of future developments or circumstances that we cannot predict at this time.

 

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In the second half of 2014, oil prices declined significantly and the outlook for oil prices indicated that prices could remain depressed for the foreseeable future. In 2014, approximately 51% of Boardwalk Pipeline’s revenues were generated from contracts with natural gas producers, a significant number of which are integrated oil companies. Further, several of Boardwalk Pipeline’s growth projects are supported by contracts with oil companies. Should the price of oil remain at its current level for a sustained period of time, Boardwalk Pipeline could be exposed to increased credit risk associated with the producer customer group.

The value of Boardwalk Pipeline’s storage and PAL services (comprised of parking gas for customers and/or lending gas to customers) is affected by natural gas price differentials between time periods, such as winter to summer (time period price spreads), price volatility of natural gas and other factors. Boardwalk Pipeline has seen the value of its storage and PAL services adversely impacted by some of the market factors discussed above which have contributed to a narrowing of time period price spreads, which in turn has reduced the rates Boardwalk Pipeline can charge and the capacity it can sell under storage and PAL services. Boardwalk Pipeline’s storage and parking services have greater value when the natural gas futures market is in contango (a positive time period price spread meaning that current price quotes for delivery of natural gas further in the future are higher than in the nearer term), while Boardwalk Pipeline’s lending service has greater value when the futures market is backwardated (a negative time period price spread, meaning that current price quotes for delivery of natural gas in the nearer term are higher than further in the future). During the first half of 2014, the futures market was significantly backwardated, partly reflecting the harsh weather conditions in late 2013 and early 2014 and Boardwalk Pipeline earned revenues from lending gas to customers under PAL services. Since then, the futures market has reverted to a contango market, although time period price spreads remain relatively narrow. Storage market fundamentals can be volatile in a relatively short period of time. Based on the current narrowing of time period price spreads and fewer market participants due to a decrease in the number of marketers taking storage positions, Boardwalk Pipeline is currently experiencing weakened demand for its storage and PAL services.

Pipeline System Maintenance

Boardwalk Pipeline incurs substantial costs for ongoing maintenance of its pipeline systems and related facilities, including those incurred for pipeline integrity management activities, equipment overhauls, general upkeep and repairs. These costs are not dependent on the amount of revenues earned from Boardwalk Pipeline’s natural gas transportation services. The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (“PHMSA”) has developed regulations that require transportation pipeline operators to implement integrity management programs to comprehensively evaluate certain areas along pipelines and take additional measures to protect pipeline segments located in highly populated areas. These regulations have resulted in an overall increase in Boardwalk Pipeline’s ongoing maintenance costs, including maintenance capital and maintenance expense. PHMSA has proposed more stringent regulations, which if implemented, could require Boardwalk Pipeline to incur significant additional costs.

Maintenance costs may be capitalized or expensed, depending on the nature of the activities. For any given reporting period, the mix of projects that Boardwalk Pipeline undertakes will affect the amounts recorded as Property, plant and equipment on the Consolidated Balance Sheets or recognize as expenses, which impacts its earnings.

In January of 2015, Boardwalk Pipeline experienced a pipeline rupture on its Gulf South pipeline in a remote area north of Jackson, Mississippi. As a result, Boardwalk Pipeline took that pipeline out of service and reduced operating pressures on certain other pipeline sections. The ruptured pipeline has been repaired, though it will not be returned to service until approval has been received from PHMSA. The pipeline rupture occurred at a time when Boardwalk Pipeline was beginning to reassess its pipeline integrity plans, particularly in light of new project opportunities. To accommodate these opportunities and otherwise ensure the integrity of Boardwalk Pipeline’s pipeline systems, over the next four years, Boardwalk Pipeline will upgrade sections of its pipeline systems, resulting in additional capital expenditures.

 

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Acquisition of the Evangeline Pipeline System

In October of 2014, Boardwalk Pipeline acquired Boardwalk Petrochemical, formerly known as Chevron Petrochemical Pipeline, LLC, which owns and operates the Evangeline ethylene pipeline system (“Evangeline”) for $295 million in cash, subject to customary adjustments. The purchase price was funded through borrowings under the revolving credit facility. The Evangeline system is an approximately 180-mile interstate pipeline, that when fully operational, is expected to be capable of transporting approximately 2.6 billion pounds of ethylene per year between Port Neches, Texas, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and is supported by long term, fee-based contracts. The acquisition was made as part of Boardwalk Pipeline’s long term growth and diversification strategy and to complement Boardwalk Pipeline’s existing NGLs and ethylene midstream assets. Shortly after the acquisition, a leak was discovered on the pipeline. Boardwalk Pipeline has taken the pipeline out of service while it inspects the pipeline and works to comply with a Corrective Action Order issued by PHMSA. The inspection process is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2015, although Boardwalk Pipeline is uncertain at this time when the remedial work will be completed or this pipeline will be returned to service, which is subject to approval by PHMSA.

Gulf South Rate Case

In October of 2014, Boardwalk Pipeline’s Gulf South subsidiary filed a rate case with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”) pursuant to Section 4 of the Natural Gas Act of 1938 (Docket No. RP15-65), requesting, among other things, a reconfiguration of the transportation rate zones on its system and, in general, an increase in its tariff rates. The new tariff rates are expected to become effective May 1, 2015, subject to refund, which means that Boardwalk Pipeline will be responsible for refunds if the FERC later finds that the proposed rates are not just and reasonable. The rate case is in the initial stages, therefore, the ultimate outcome and impacts on Boardwalk Pipeline’s earnings and cash flows for 2015 and beyond cannot be predicted at this time.

Results of Operations

The following table summarizes the results of operations for Boardwalk Pipeline for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 as presented in Note 22 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014       2013       2012          

 

 
(In millions)            

Revenues:

Other revenue, primarily operating

$       1,235     $       1,231     $       1,187         

Net investment income

         

Investment losses

  (3)        

 

 

Total

  1,236       1,232       1,184         

 

 

Expenses:

Operating

  931       776       717         

Impairment of goodwill

  52    

Interest

  165       163       166         

 

 

Total

  1,096       991       883         

 

 

Income before income tax

  140       241       301         

Income tax expense

  (11)      (56)      (70)        

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (111)      (107)      (122)        

 

 

Net income attributable to Loews Corporation

$ 18     $ 78     $ 109         

 

 

2014 Compared with 2013

Total revenues increased $4 million in 2014, compared with 2013. This increase is primarily due to a $27 million increase in transportation and other revenues generally due to the colder than normal winter weather in Boardwalk Pipeline’s market areas and growth projects which were recently placed into service, partially offset by lower firm transportation revenues due to the effects of the market and contract renewal conditions discussed above. Additionally, revenues increased $13 million from fuel retained primarily due to higher natural gas prices and $15

 

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million from gas sales associated with the Flag City processing plant, which were offset by gas purchases recorded in Operating expenses. Storage and parking and lending revenues were lower by $22 million primarily as a result of the effects of unfavorable market conditions on natural gas time period price spreads. The 2013 period was favorably impacted by a $30 million gain from the sale of storage gas.

Operating expenses increased $155 million in 2014, compared with 2013. This increase is primarily due to a charge of $94 million to write off previously capitalized costs incurred for the Bluegrass Project, a project with The Williams Companies, Inc. which was dissolved due to cost escalations, construction delays and lack of customer commitments. The higher operating expenses were also caused by a $27 million increase in fuel and transportation expenses primarily driven by gas purchases for the Flag City processing plant which were offset in revenues and the effects of higher natural gas prices on fuel, a $17 million increase in depreciation expense primarily due to an increase in the asset base and a $12 million increase in operation and maintenance expenses primarily due to increased maintenance expense projects.

Net income for 2014 decreased $60 million as compared to 2013 period primarily reflecting the Bluegrass Project related charge and higher operations, maintenance and depreciation expense, partially offset by the prior year goodwill impairment charge of $16 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) discussed further below.

2013 Compared with 2012

Total revenues increased $48 million in 2013 as compared with 2012. This increase is primarily due to $63 million of revenues earned from Boardwalk Louisiana Midstream LLC (“Louisiana Midstream”), acquired in October of 2012, a $30 million gain from the sale of storage gas and an increase in fuel revenues of $9 million primarily due to higher natural gas prices. The increase in revenues was partially offset by the market conditions discussed above, resulting in lower transportation revenues, excluding fuel, of $53 million and $4 million of reduced storage and PAL revenues.

Operating expenses increased $59 million in 2013, compared to 2012. This increase is primarily due to $38 million of expenses incurred by Louisiana Midstream, higher depreciation and property taxes of $9 million due to an increase in the asset base and increased fuel costs of $6 million due to higher natural gas prices.

Boardwalk Pipeline recognized a goodwill impairment charge of $52 million ($16 million after tax and noncontrolling interests) for the year ended December 31, 2013, representing the carrying value of goodwill related to its reporting unit which included goodwill associated with the acquisition of Petal Gas Storage, LLC (formerly referred to as Boardwalk HP Storage Company, LLC) in December of 2011. The fair value of the reporting unit declined from the amount determined in 2012 primarily due to the recent narrowing of time period price spreads and reduced volatility which negatively affects the value of Boardwalk Pipeline’s storage and PAL services and the cumulative effect of reduced basis spreads on the value of Boardwalk Pipeline’s transportation services.

Net income decreased $31 million in 2013 as compared with 2012 reflecting higher revenues offset by increased expenses as discussed above. The percentage of income attributable to noncontrolling interests increased as a result of equity offerings in 2012 and 2013 by Boardwalk Pipeline, decreasing our ownership percentage from 59% in 2012 to 54% in 2013.

 

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Loews Hotels

The following table summarizes the results of operations for Loews Hotels for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 as presented in Note 22 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014       2013       2012          

 

 
(In millions)            

Revenues:

Operating revenue

$         398    $         323    $         369        

Revenues related to reimbursable expenses

  77      57      27        

Net investment income

  1        

 

 

Total

  475      380      397        

 

 

Expenses:

Operating

  351      299      339        

Reimbursable expenses

  77      57      27        

Depreciation

  37      32      30        

Equity income from joint ventures

  (25   (13   (24)       

Interest

  14      9      11        

 

 

Total

  454      384      383        

 

 

Income (loss) before income tax

  21      (4   14        

Income tax (expense) benefit

  (10   1      (7)       

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to Loews Corporation

$ 11    $ (3 $ 7        

 

 

2014 Compared with 2013

Operating revenues increased $75 million in 2014 as compared to 2013, primarily due to current year acquisitions and the reopening in January of 2014 of the Loews Regency Hotel in New York, which was closed for renovation in 2013. These increases were partially offset by the reduction in revenue recognized by Loews Hotels as a result of the sale of equity interests in two hotels in July of 2013. For periods following the sale of these equity interests, Loews Hotels’ share of earnings or losses for these hotels is included in Equity income from joint ventures.

Reimbursable expenses relate mainly to payroll incurred by Loews Hotels on behalf of the owners of joint venture and managed hotel properties.

Revenue per available room (“RevPAR”) is an industry measure of the combined effect of occupancy rates and average room rates on room revenues. Other hotel operating revenues, not included in RevPAR, primarily include guest charges for food and beverages. RevPAR for owned and joint venture hotels increased $14.19 to $182.86 in 2014 as compared to 2013, driven by an increase in both occupancy and average room rates. RevPAR in 2014 was favorably impacted by the reopening of the Loews Regency Hotel which had a higher RevPAR than the hotel portfolio average and negatively impacted by the addition of three hotels which operate at a lower RevPAR than the hotel portfolio average.

Operating expenses increased $52 million in 2014 as compared to 2013 primarily due to the addition of three hotels and the reopening of the Loews Regency Hotel, partially offset by a reduction in expenses as a result of the sale of equity interests in two hotels.

Equity income from joint venture properties increased $12 million in 2014 as compared to 2013. The increase was primarily due to improved performance of the Universal Orlando properties, including the addition of Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort.

Interest expense increased $5 million in 2014 as compared to 2013, primarily due to the refinancing of a $125 million mortgage loan for a new $300 million mortgage loan and incremental interest expense from property-level debt incurred to fund acquisitions. These increases were partially offset by the reduction in interest expense as a result of the sale of equity interests in two hotels.

 

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2013 Compared with 2012

Operating revenues decreased by $46 million in 2013 as compared to 2012, primarily due to the 2013 closure of the Loews Regency Hotel.

RevPAR for owned and joint venture hotels decreased $5.41 to $168.67 in 2013 as compared to 2012, reflecting a decrease in occupancy and average room rates. Excluding the Loews Regency Hotel which was closed for renovation throughout 2013, RevPAR increased $3.76 for 2013 as compared to 2012, reflecting an increase in average room rates.

Operating expenses decreased $40 million in 2013 as compared to 2012, primarily due to the closure of the Loews Regency Hotel, partially offset by higher corporate expenses related to hotels recently acquired and under development. In addition, expenses were reduced by $3 million and $7 million in 2013 and 2012 related to recoveries of a loan guarantee payment.

Equity income from joint venture properties decreased in 2013 as compared to 2012, primarily due to the impact of renovations and the development of joint venture properties.

Corporate and Other

Corporate and Other operations consist primarily of investment income at the Parent Company, corporate interest expenses and other corporate administrative costs. Investment income includes earnings on cash and short term investments held at the Parent Company level to meet current and future liquidity needs, as well as results of limited partnership investments and the trading portfolio.

The following table summarizes the results of operations for Corporate and Other for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 as presented in Note 22 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014       2013       2012          

 

 
(In millions)            

Revenues:

Net investment income

$             94    $           141    $             61        

Other revenues

  3      2      1        

 

 

Total

  97      143      62        

 

 

Expenses:

Operating

  103      98      106        

Interest

  74      62      40        

 

 

Total

  177      160      146        

 

 

Loss before income tax

  (80   (17   (84)       

Income tax benefit

  28      7      29        

 

 

Net loss attributable to Loews Corporation

$ (52 $ (10 $ (55)       

 

 

2014 Compared with 2013

Net investment income decreased by $47 million in 2014 as compared to 2013, primarily due to lower results from limited partnership investments and lower performance of fixed income investments and equity based investments, partially offset by improved performance of foreign currency related investments in the trading portfolio.

Interest expense increased $12 million in 2014, primarily due to a May of 2013 public offering of $500 million aggregate principal amount of 2.6% senior notes due May 15, 2023 and $500 million aggregate principal amount of 4.1% senior notes due May 15, 2043.

 

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Net results decreased $42 million in 2014 as compared to 2013, primarily due to the change in revenues and expenses discussed above.

2013 Compared with 2012

Net investment income increased by $80 million in 2013 as compared to 2012, primarily due to improved performance of the equity and fixed income investments in the trading portfolio and improved performance of limited partnership investments for 2013.

Interest expense increased $22 million in 2013, primarily due to the May of 2013 public debt offering discussed above.

Net results improved $45 million in 2013 as compared to 2012, primarily due to the change in revenues and expenses discussed above.

Discontinued Operations

Losses from discontinued operations (after tax and noncontrolling interests) were $371 million, $554 million and $400 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. On September 30, 2014, HighMount was sold to privately held affiliates of EnerVest, Ltd. for net proceeds of $787 million. HighMount’s bank debt of $480 million was repaid from proceeds of the sale. In connection with the sale, the Company recognized an impairment charge of $138 million related to the excess carrying value of HighMount over the sales price, less costs to sell. Results for the year ended December 31, 2014 also include a ceiling test impairment charge of $19 million and losses from HighMount operations of $37 million, including exit and disposal costs incurred related to the sale. Results for the year ended December 31, 2013 include a goodwill impairment charge of $382 million and a ceiling test impairment charge of $186 million and results for the year ended December 31, 2012 include a ceiling test impairment charge of $433 million.

Results for the year ended December 31, 2014 also include income from CAC operations of $12 million and an impairment charge of $189 million recorded in connection with the sale of the CAC business. CAC operations had income of $20 million and $7 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

CNA Financial

Cash Flows

CNA’s primary operating cash flow sources are premiums and investment income from its insurance subsidiaries. CNA’s primary operating cash flow uses are payments for claims, policy benefits and operating expenses, including interest expense on corporate debt. Additionally, cash may be paid or received for income taxes.

For 2014, net cash provided by operating activities was $1.4 billion as compared with $1.2 billion for 2013. In 2014, cash provided by operating activities reflected increased receipts relating to returns on limited partnerships and lower net claim payments, substantially offset by increased tax payments. Additionally, in 2013 CNA contributed $75 million to the CNA Retirement Plan. Net cash provided by operating activities was $1.3 billion in 2012. Operating cash flows in 2013 reflected increased claim payments, partially offset by increased premium receipts.

Cash flows from investing activities include the purchase and disposition of available-for-sale financial instruments and may include the purchase and sale of businesses, land, buildings, equipment and other assets not generally held for resale.

 

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Net cash used by investing activities was $918 million for 2014, as compared with $898 million and $934 million for 2013 and 2012. The cash flow from investing activities is affected by various factors such as the anticipated payment of claims, financing activity, asset/liability management and individual security buy and sell decisions made in the normal course of portfolio management.

Cash flows from financing activities may include proceeds from the issuance of debt and equity securities, outflows for shareholder dividends or repayment of debt and outlays to reacquire equity instruments. Net cash used by financing activities was $519 million, $264 million and $239 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Liquidity

CNA believes that its present cash flows from operations, investing activities and financing activities are sufficient to fund its current and expected working capital and debt obligation needs and CNA does not expect this to change in the near term. There are currently no amounts outstanding under CNA’s $250 million senior unsecured revolving credit facility and no borrowings outstanding through CNA’s membership in the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (“FHLBC”).

CNA has an effective Registration Statement on Form S-3 registering the future sale of an unlimited amount of its debt and equity securities.

Dividends

Dividends of $2.00 per share of CNA’s common stock, including a special dividend of $1.00 per share, were declared and paid in 2014. On February 6, 2015, CNA’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share and a special dividend of $2.00 per share, payable March 12, 2015 to shareholders of record on February 23, 2015. The declaration and payment of future dividends is at the discretion of CNA’s Board of Directors and will depend on many factors, including CNA’s earnings, financial condition, business needs, and regulatory constraints.

Ratings

Ratings are an important factor in establishing the competitive position of insurance companies. CNA’s insurance company subsidiaries are rated by major rating agencies and these ratings reflect the rating agency’s opinion of the insurance company’s financial strength, operating performance, strategic position and ability to meet its obligations to policyholders. Agency ratings are not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any security and may be revised or withdrawn at any time by the issuing organization. Each agency’s rating should be evaluated independently of any other agency’s rating. One or more of these agencies could take action in the future to change the ratings of CNA’s insurance subsidiaries.

The table below reflects the various group ratings issued by A.M. Best Company (“A.M. Best”), Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (“Moody’s”) and Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”) as of December 31, 2014. The table also includes the ratings for CNA senior debt.

 

        Insurance Financial Strength Ratings Corporate Debt Ratings 

 

 

            CCC

            Group

Western                             

Group                             

CNA Senior Debt

 

A.M. Best

            A A                             bbb

Moody’s

            A3 Not rated                             Baa2

S&P

            A A                             BBB

A.M. Best, Moody’s and S&P each maintain a stable outlook on CNA.

Hardy benefits from the collective financial strength of the Lloyd’s market, which is rated A+ by S&P with a stable outlook and A by A.M. Best with a positive outlook.

 

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Diamond Offshore

Cash and investments totaled $250 million at December 31, 2014, compared to $2.1 billion at December 31, 2013. In 2014, Diamond Offshore paid cash dividends totaling $486 million, consisting of aggregate regular cash dividends of $69 million and aggregate special cash dividends of $417 million. On February 6, 2015, Diamond Offshore declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.125 per share.

Cash provided by operating activities in 2014 was $993 million, compared to $1.1 billion in 2013, a decrease of $73 million, primarily due to higher cash payments related to contract drilling expenses of $77 million and higher interest payments of $51 million on senior notes. The increase in cash outflows for 2014 was partially offset by lower cash income taxes paid in the U.S. Federal Jurisdiction and a slight increase in cash receipts from contract drilling services of $7 million.

Diamond Offshore is currently obligated under separate agreements in connection with two ongoing rig construction projects. The following is a summary of Diamond Offshore’s construction projects as of December 31, 2014:

 

(In millions) Expected
Delivery (a)
Total Project
Cost (b)
Project    
Expenditures    
to Date (c)    

 

Ultra-deepwater drillship:

Ocean BlackLion

Q1 2015 $        655     $        199        

Ultra-deepwater floater:

Ocean GreatWhite

Q1 2016 $        764     $        197        

 

(a)

Represents expected delivery date of vessel from shipyard and does not include additional non-operating days for commissioning, contract preparation and mobilization to initial area of operation, which will occur prior to the rig being placed in service.

(b)

Total project costs include contractual payments for shipyard construction, commissioning, capital spares and project management costs, and does not include capitalized interest.

(c)

Represents total project expenditures, including accrued expenditures, from inception of project to December 31, 2014, excluding project-to-date capitalized interest.

For 2015, Diamond Offshore has budgeted approximately $944 million for capital expenditures of which approximately $602 million is expected to be spent on current rig construction projects. The remainder will be spent on Diamond Offshore’s ongoing capital maintenance and replacement programs.

Depending on market and other conditions, Diamond Offshore may purchase shares of its outstanding common stock in the open market or otherwise. In 2014, Diamond Offshore purchased 1.9 million shares of its outstanding common stock at an aggregate cost of $88 million.

In September of 2014, Diamond Offshore repaid at maturity the entire $250 million principal amount of its 5.2% senior notes.

Diamond Offshore has a $1.5 billion senior unsecured revolving credit facility, to be used for general corporate purposes, which matures in 2019. Diamond Offshore also has the option to increase the revolving commitments under the credit agreement by up to an additional $500 million from time to time, upon receipt of additional commitments from new or existing lenders, and to request up to two additional one-year extensions of the maturity date. The entire amount of the facility is available, subject to its terms, for revolving loans. As of December 31, 2014, there were no loans or letters of credit outstanding under the credit agreement.

During the third quarter of 2014, S&P revised its outlook on Diamond Offshore to negative from stable and in December of 2014, lowered its corporate credit and unsecured debt ratings from A to A-. In February of 2015, Moody’s and S&P assigned short-term credit ratings of Prime-2 and A2 to Diamond Offshore’s commercial paper program. Concurrently, Moody’s and S&P affirmed Diamond Offshore’s long term corporate credit rating of A3 and

 

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A-. Market conditions and other factors, many of which are outside of Diamond Offshore’s control, could cause its credit ratings to be lowered. A downgrade in Diamond Offshore’s credit ratings could impact its cost of issuing additional debt and the amount of additional debt that it could issue, A series of downgrades or a substantial downgrade could restrict Diamond Offshore’s access to capital markets and its ability to raise additional debt or rollover existing maturities. As a consequence, Diamond Offshore may not be able to issue additional debt in amounts and/or with terms that it considers to be reasonable. One or more of these occurrences could limit Diamond Offshore’s ability to pursue other business opportunities.

In February of 2015, Diamond Offshore established a commercial paper program with three commercial paper dealers pursuant to which it may issue, on a private placement basis, unsecured commercial paper notes up to a maximum aggregate amount outstanding at any time of $1.5 billion. Proceeds from issuances under the commercial paper program may be used for general corporate purposes. The maturities of the notes may vary, but may not exceed 397 days from the date of issuance. Diamond Offshore’s credit facility provides liquidity for the payment obligations in respect of the notes issued under the commercial paper program, and unless terms of the program are changed, the aggregate amount of notes outstanding at any time will not exceed the amount available under the credit facility. As of the date of this report, Diamond Offshore had no commercial paper notes outstanding.

As a result of Diamond Offshore’s intention to indefinitely reinvest the earnings of its wholly owned subsidiary, Diamond Offshore International Limited (“DOIL”), to finance its foreign activities, Diamond Offshore does not expect such earnings to be available for distribution to its stockholders or to finance its domestic activities. Diamond Offshore believes that the operating cash flows generated by and cash reserves of DOIL, and the operating cash flows available to and cash reserves of Diamond Offshore will be sufficient to meet both its working capital requirements and its capital commitments. However, in light of the significant cash requirements of Diamond Offshore’s capital expansion program in 2015 and 2016, Diamond Offshore may make use of its credit facility or commercial paper program to finance its capital expenditures and working capital requirements. Diamond Offshore will continue to make periodic assessments of its capital spending programs based on industry conditions and will adjust capital spending programs if required. Diamond Offshore, may, from time to time, issue debt or equity securities, or a combination thereof, to finance capital expenditures, the acquisition of assets and businesses or for general corporate purposes. Diamond Offshore’s ability to access the capital markets by issuing debt or equity securities will be dependent on its results of operations, current financial condition, current credit ratings, current market conditions and other factors beyond its control.

Boardwalk Pipeline

At December 31, 2014 and 2013, cash and investments amounted to $8 million and $29 million. Funds from operations for 2014 amounted to $514 million, compared to $534 million in 2013. In 2014 and 2013, Boardwalk Pipeline’s capital expenditures were $404 million and $295 million. Capital expenditures in 2014 were primarily related to the Southeast Market Expansion project placed into service in October of 2014. Net cash used in investing activities in 2014 also included $295 million for the acquisition of the Evangeline pipeline. In 2014 and 2013, Boardwalk Pipeline paid cash distributions of $99 million and $534 million to its partners. Boardwalk Pipeline expects total capital expenditures to be approximately $570 million in 2015, primarily related to growth projects discussed further in Item 1 and increased pipeline system maintenance expenditures. A summary of the estimated total costs of the growth projects and inception to date spending, as of December 31, 2014, are as follows:

 

  Estimated   Cash invested through      
  total cost   December 31, 2014      

 

 
(In millions)        

Ohio to Louisiana Access

$ 115            $ 10                       

Southern Indiana Market Lateral

  95          2                       

Western Kentucky Market Lateral

  80          1                       

Power Plant Project in South Texas

  80       

Sulphur Storage and Pipeline Expansion

  145          5                       

Northern Supply Access

  250       

Coastal Bend Header

  720          2                       

Other growth projects

  73       

 

 

Total

$   1,558            $ 20                       

 

 

 

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In September of 2014, Boardwalk Pipeline repaid $25 million principal of its variable rate term loan. The outstanding borrowing of $200 million is due in October of 2017. No additional borrowing capacity is available under this term loan.

In November of 2014, Boardwalk Pipeline issued $350 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.0% Senior Notes due December 15, 2024. Boardwalk Pipeline used a portion of the $343 million in net proceeds to retire all of the outstanding $275 million aggregate principal amount of 5.1% notes due 2015 on February 2, 2015, and the remainder of the net proceeds was used to reduce outstanding borrowings under the revolving credit facility.

Boardwalk Pipeline’s revolving credit facility, which matures in April of 2017, has aggregate lending commitments of $1.0 billion. As of February 18, 2015, Boardwalk Pipeline had outstanding borrowings of $460 million resulting in $540 million of available borrowing capacity and is in compliance with all covenant requirements under the credit facility.

Boardwalk Pipeline anticipates that for 2015 its existing capital resources, including the revolving credit facility, cash flows from operating activities and the subordinated loan agreement with a subsidiary of the Company to provide $300 million of financing will be adequate to fund its operations, including its planned capital expenditures. The subordinated loan agreement provides for a draw period through December 31, 2015 and matures in July of 2024, subject to certain mandatory pre-payment requirements. Boardwalk Pipeline may seek to access the capital markets to fund some or all capital expenditures for future growth projects or acquisitions, or to repay or refinance all or a portion of its indebtedness, a significant amount of which matures in the next five years.

Most of Boardwalk Pipeline’s senior unsecured debt is rated by independent credit rating agencies. Boardwalk Pipeline’s credit ratings affect its ability to access the public and private debt markets, as well as the terms and the cost of borrowings. The ability to satisfy financing requirements or fund planned growth capital expenditures will depend upon Boardwalk Pipeline’s future operating performance and the ability to access the capital markets, which are affected by economic factors in its industry as well as other financial and business factors, some of which are beyond Boardwalk Pipeline’s control. The table below reflects the various group ratings issued by S&P, Moody’s and Fitch Ratings, Inc. (“Fitch”) for Boardwalk Pipeline’s senior unsecured notes and that of its operating subsidiaries having outstanding rated debt as of February 18, 2015.

 

  Rating Outlook    

 

  Boardwalk Operating Boardwalk Operating    
  Pipeline Subsidiaries Pipeline Subsidiaries    

 

S&P

BB+ BBB- Negative Negative    

Moody’s

Baa3 Baa2 Stable Stable    

Fitch

BBB- BBB- Stable Stable    

Loews Hotels

Cash and investments totaled $84 million at December 31, 2014, as compared to $53 million at December 31, 2013. In 2014, Loews Hotels made net cash distributions of approximately $50 million to us, primarily due to the refinancing of a $125 million mortgage loan for a new $300 million mortgage loan, partially offset by funding for the acquisition of three hotels. Funds for future capital expenditures, including acquisitions of new properties, renovations and working capital requirements are expected to be provided from operations, newly incurred debt, existing cash balances and advances or capital contributions from us.

Corporate and Other

Parent Company cash and investments, net of receivables and payables at December 31, 2014 totaled $5.1 billion, as compared to $4.7 billion at December 31, 2013. In 2014, we received $782 million in dividends from our subsidiaries, including a special dividend from CNA of $242 million. Cash outflows included, among other corporate overhead costs, the payment of $622 million to fund treasury stock purchases, $61 million to purchase shares of Diamond Offshore, $95 million of cash dividends to our shareholders and net cash contributions of approximately $75 million to our subsidiaries.

 

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On September 30, 2014, we received proceeds of $787 million from the sale of HighMount, of which $480 million was used to repay indebtedness of HighMount.

As of February 13, 2015, there were 373,176,361 shares of Loews common stock outstanding. Depending on market and other conditions, we may purchase our shares and shares of our subsidiaries outstanding common stock in the open market or otherwise. In 2014, we purchased 14.6 million shares of Loews common stock and 1.9 million shares of Diamond Offshore.

We have an effective Registration Statement on Form S-3 registering the future sale of an unlimited amount of our debt and equity securities. From time to time, we consider issuance of Parent Company indebtedness under this registration statement.

We continue to pursue conservative financial strategies while seeking opportunities for responsible growth. These include the expansion of existing businesses, full or partial acquisitions and dispositions, and opportunities for efficiencies and economies of scale.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

At December 31, 2014 and 2013, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.

Contractual Obligations

Our contractual payment obligations are as follows:

 

    Payments Due by Period  
 

 

 
        Less than           More than      
December 31, 2014   Total       1 year      1-3 years   3-5 years   5 years      

 

 
(In millions)                      

Debt (a)

  $  15,638        $    1,372        $    2,873        $    2,609        $    8,784           

Operating leases

  492        59        109        86        238           

Claim and claim adjustment expense reserves (b)

  24,733        5,019        6,386        3,318        10,010           

Future policy benefits reserves (c)

  34,408        127        374        606        33,301           

Policyholders’ funds reserves (c)

  27        17        10        (2)       2           

Rig construction contracts

  869        429        440     

Purchase and other obligations

  331        299        18        4        10           

 

 

Total (d)

  $  76,498        $    7,322        $  10,210        $    6,621        $  52,345           

 

 

 

(a)

Includes estimated future interest payments.

(b)

Claim and claim adjustment expense reserves are not discounted and represent CNA’s estimate of the amount and timing of the ultimate settlement and administration of gross claims based on its assessment of facts and circumstances known as of December 31, 2014. See the Reserves - Estimates and Uncertainties section of this MD&A for further information.

(c)

Future policy benefits and policyholders’ funds reserves are not discounted and represent CNA’s estimate of the ultimate amount and timing of the settlement of benefits based on its assessment of facts and circumstances known as of December 31, 2014. Additional information on future policy benefits and policyholders’ funds reserves is included in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

(d)

Does not include expected contribution of approximately $22 million to the Company’s pension and postretirement plans in 2015.

Further information on our commitments, contingencies and guarantees is provided in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

 

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INVESTMENTS

Investment activities of non-insurance subsidiaries primarily include investments in fixed income securities, including short term investments. The Parent Company portfolio also includes equity securities, including short sales and derivative instruments, and investments in limited partnerships. These types of investments generally present greater volatility, less liquidity and greater risk than fixed income investments and are included within Results of Operations – Corporate and Other.

We enter into short sales and invest in certain derivative instruments that are used for asset and liability management activities, income enhancements to our portfolio management strategy and to benefit from anticipated future movements in the underlying markets. If such movements do not occur as anticipated, then significant losses may occur. Monitoring procedures include senior management review of daily detailed reports of existing positions and valuation fluctuations to ensure that open positions are consistent with our portfolio strategy.

Credit exposure associated with non-performance by the counterparties to derivative instruments is generally limited to the uncollateralized change in fair value of the derivative instruments recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. We mitigate the risk of non-performance by monitoring the creditworthiness of counterparties and diversifying derivatives to multiple counterparties. We occasionally require collateral from our derivative investment counterparties depending on the amount of the exposure and the credit rating of the counterparty.

Insurance

CNA maintains a large portfolio of fixed maturity and equity securities, including large amounts of corporate and government issued debt securities, residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities, and other asset-backed securities and investments in limited partnerships which pursue a variety of long and short investment strategies across a broad array of asset classes. CNA’s investment portfolio supports its obligation to pay future insurance claims and provides investment returns which are an important part of CNA’s overall profitability.

Net Investment Income

The significant components of CNA’s net investment income are presented in the following table:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014       2013       2012              

 

 
(In millions)            

Fixed maturity securities:

Taxable

$       1,399    $       1,510    $       1,572           

Tax-exempt

  404      317      274           

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

  1,803      1,827      1,846           

Limited partnership investments

  263      451      251           

Other, net of investment expense

  1      4      13           

 

 

Net investment income before tax

$ 2,067    $ 2,282    $ 2,110           

 

 

Net investment income after tax and noncontrolling interests

$ 1,323    $ 1,418    $ 1,307           

 

 

Effective income yield for the fixed maturity securities
portfolio, before tax

  4.8   5.0   5.2%        

Effective income yield for the fixed maturity securities
portfolio, after tax

  3.5   3.5   3.6%        

Net investment income after tax and noncontrolling interests decreased $95 million in 2014 as compared with 2013. The decrease was primarily driven by limited partnerships, which produced a rate of return of 9.7% as compared with 18.3% in the prior year. This was partially offset by an increase in fixed maturity securities investment income, after tax and noncontrolling interests, due to additional investments in tax-exempt securities.

 

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Net investment income after tax and noncontrolling interests increased $111 million in 2013 as compared with 2012. The increase was driven by a significant increase in limited partnership investment income. Limited partnership results were positively affected by more favorable equity market returns.

Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)

The components of CNA’s net realized investment results are presented in the following table:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014     2013       2012          

 

 
(In millions)            

Realized investment gains (losses):

Fixed maturity securities:

Corporate and other bonds

$ 67    $ 42    $ 101        

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

  (7   36      (6)       

Asset-backed

  (21   (40   (25)       

U.S. Treasury and obligations of government-sponsored enterprises

  3        

Foreign government

  2      4      4        

Redeemable preferred stock

  (1

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

  41      41      77        

Equity securities

  1      (22   (23)       

Derivative securities

  (1   (9   (2)       

Short term investments and other

  13      6      (1)       

 

 

Total realized investment gains

  54      16      51        

Income tax expense

  (18   (4   (18)       

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (4   (2   (3)       

 

 

Net realized investment gains attributable to Loews Corporation

$             32    $             10    $             30        

 

 

Net realized investment gains increased $22 million in 2014 as compared with 2013, driven by higher net realized investment gains on sales of securities. Net realized investment gains decreased $20 million in 2013 as compared with 2012, driven by lower net realized investment gains on sales of securities, partially offset by lower other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses recognized in earnings. Further information on CNA’s realized gains and losses, including CNA’s OTTI losses and impairment decision process, is set forth in Notes 1 and 3 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

Portfolio Quality

CNA’s fixed maturity portfolio consists primarily of high quality bonds, 92.8% and 92.1% of which were rated as investment grade (rated BBB- or higher) at December 31, 2014 and 2013. The classification between investment grade and non-investment grade is based on a ratings methodology that takes into account ratings from S&P and Moody’s, in that order of preference. If a security is not rated by these agencies, CNA formulates an internal rating. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, approximately 99% of the fixed maturity portfolio was rated by S&P or Moody’s, or was issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, Government agencies or Government-sponsored enterprises.

 

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The following table summarizes the ratings of CNA’s fixed maturity portfolio at fair value:

 

December 31        2014   2013  

 

 
(In millions of dollars)                

U.S. Government, Government agencies and
Government-sponsored enterprises

$ 3,882      9.5 $ 3,683      8.9%        

AAA

  2,850      7.0      2,776      6.7           

AA and A

  19,998      49.1      20,353      49.4           

BBB

  11,093      27.2      11,171      27.1           

Non-investment grade

  2,945      7.2      3,250      7.9           

 

 

Total

$   40,768      100.0 $   41,233      100.0%        

 

 

Non-investment grade fixed maturity securities, as presented in the table below, include securities rated below BBB- by bond rating agencies and other unrated securities that, according to CNA’s analysis, are below investment grade. Non-investment grade securities generally involve a greater degree of risk than investment grade securities. The amortized cost of CNA’s non-investment grade fixed maturity securities was $2.8 billion and $3.1 billion at December 31, 2014 and 2013. The following table summarizes the ratings of these securities at fair value:

 

December 31        2014   2013  

 

 
(In millions of dollars)                

BB

$ 1,264      42.9 $ 1,393      42.9%        

B

  847      28.8      967      29.8           

CCC - C

  616      20.9      649      20.0           

D

  218      7.4      241      7.3           

 

 

Total

$     2,945      100.0 $     3,250      100.0%        

 

 

The following table summarizes available-for-sale fixed maturity securities in a gross unrealized loss position by ratings distribution:

 

          Gross      
  Estimated       Unrealized      
December 31, 2014 Fair Value    %   Losses   %    

 

 
(In millions of dollars)                

U.S. Government, Government agencies and
Government-sponsored enterprises

$ 147        4.1  $ 3        3.1%       

AAA

  330        9.3      5        5.2           

AA

  474        13.4      8        8.2           

A

  760        21.4      15        15.5           

BBB

  1,137        32.1      30        30.9           

Non-investment grade

  696        19.7      36        37.1           

 

 

Total

$     3,544        100.0  $        97        100.0%       

 

 

 

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The following table provides the maturity profile for these available-for-sale fixed maturity securities. Securities not due to mature on a single date are allocated based on weighted average life:

 

          Gross      
  Estimated       Unrealized      
December 31, 2014 Fair Value   %   Losses   %          

 

 
(In millions of dollars)                

Due in one year or less

$ 63        1.8 $ 1        1.0%       

Due after one year through five years

  834        23.5      22        22.7           

Due after five years through ten years

  1,961        55.3      51        52.6           

Due after ten years

  686        19.4      23        23.7           

 

 

Total

$     3,544        100.0 $       97        100.0%       

 

 

Duration

A primary objective in the management of the investment portfolio is to optimize return relative to corresponding liabilities and respective liquidity needs. CNA’s views on the current interest rate environment, tax regulations, asset class valuations, specific security issuer and broader industry segment conditions and the domestic and global economic conditions, are some of the factors that enter into an investment decision. CNA also continually monitors exposure to issuers of securities held and broader industry sector exposures and may from time to time adjust such exposures based on its views of a specific issuer or industry sector.

A further consideration in the management of the investment portfolio is the characteristics of the corresponding liabilities and the ability to align the duration of the portfolio to those liabilities and to meet future liquidity needs, minimize interest rate risk and maintain a level of income sufficient to support the underlying insurance liabilities. For portfolios where future liability cash flows are determinable and typically long term in nature, CNA segregates investments for asset/liability management purposes. The segregated investments support the long term care and structured settlement liabilities in Life & Group Non-Core.

The effective durations of fixed maturity securities, short term investments and interest rate derivatives are presented in the table below. Short term investments are net of accounts payable and receivable amounts for securities purchased and sold, but not yet settled.

 

    December 31, 2014   December 31, 2013          
 

 

 
        Effective       Effective          
        Duration       Duration          
      Fair Value   (Years)     Fair Value   (Years)          

 

 
(In millions of dollars)                  

Investments supporting Life & Group Non-Core

$ 14,668         10.5         $ 15,009         11.3               

Other interest sensitive investments

  27,748         4.0           27,766         4.4               

 

 

Total

$     42,416         6.3         $     42,775         6.9               

 

 

The investment portfolio is periodically analyzed for changes in duration and related price change risk. Additionally, CNA periodically reviews the sensitivity of the portfolio to the level of foreign exchange rates and other factors that contribute to market price changes. A summary of these risks and specific analysis on changes is included in Item 7A – Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk included herein.

 

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Short Term Investments

The carrying value of the components of CNA’s short term investment portfolio is presented in the following table:

 

December 31 2014   2013      

 

 
(In millions)        

Short term investments:

Commercial paper

$ 922    $ 549       

U.S. Treasury securities

  466      636       

Money market funds

  206      94       

Other

  112      128       

 

 

Total short term investments

$       1,706    $       1,407       

 

 

ACCOUNTING STANDARDS UPDATE

For a discussion of accounting standards updates that have been adopted or will be adopted in the future, please read Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Investors are cautioned that certain statements contained in this Report as well as some statements in periodic press releases and some oral statements made by our officials and our subsidiaries during presentations about us, are “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”). Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, any statement that may project, indicate or imply future results, events, performance or achievements, and may contain the words “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “believe,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions. In addition, any statement concerning future financial performance (including future revenues, earnings or growth rates), ongoing business strategies or prospects, and possible actions taken by us or our subsidiaries, which may be provided by management are also forward-looking statements as defined by the Act.

Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and projections about future events and are inherently subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated or projected. These risks and uncertainties include, among others:

Risks and uncertainties primarily affecting us and our insurance subsidiaries

 

   

the risks and uncertainties associated with CNA’s insurance reserves, as outlined under “Results of Operations by Business Segment – CNA Financial – Reserves – Estimates and Uncertainties” in this MD&A, including the sufficiency of the reserves and the possibility for future increases, which would be reflected in the results of operations in the period that the need for such adjustment is determined;

 

   

the risk that the other parties to the transaction in which, subject to certain limitations, CNA ceded its legacy A&EP liabilities will not fully perform their obligations to CNA, the uncertainty in estimating loss reserves for A&EP liabilities and the possible continued exposure of CNA to liabilities for A&EP claims that are not covered under the terms of the transaction;

 

   

the performance of reinsurance companies under reinsurance contracts with CNA;

 

   

the impact of competitive products, policies and pricing and the competitive environment in which CNA operates, including changes in CNA’s book of business;

 

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product and policy availability and demand and market responses, including the level of ability to obtain rate increases and decline or non-renew underpriced accounts, to achieve premium targets and profitability and to realize growth and retention estimates;

 

   

general economic and business conditions, including recessionary conditions that may decrease the size and number of CNA’s insurance customers and create additional losses to CNA’s lines of business, especially those that provide management and professional liability insurance, as well as surety bonds, to businesses engaged in real estate, financial services and professional services and inflationary pressures on medical care costs, construction costs and other economic sectors that increase the severity of claims;

 

   

conditions in the capital and credit markets, including continuing uncertainty and instability in these markets, as well as the overall economy, and their impact on the returns, types, liquidity and valuation of CNA’s investments;

 

   

conditions in the capital and credit markets that may limit CNA’s ability to raise significant amounts of capital on favorable terms;

 

   

the possibility of changes in CNA’s ratings by ratings agencies, including the inability to access certain markets or distribution channels, and the required collateralization of future payment obligations as a result of such changes, and changes in rating agency policies and practices;

 

   

regulatory limitations, impositions and restrictions upon CNA, including with respect to its ability to increase premium rates and the effects of assessments and other surcharges for guaranty funds and second-injury funds, other mandatory pooling arrangements and future assessments levied on insurance companies;

 

   

regulatory limitations and restrictions, including limitations upon CNA’s ability to receive dividends from its insurance subsidiaries imposed by regulatory authorities, including regulatory capital adequacy standards;

 

   

weather and other natural physical events, including the severity and frequency of storms, hail, snowfall and other winter conditions, natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes, as well as climate change, including effects on global weather patterns, greenhouse gases, sea, land and air temperatures, sea levels, rain, hail and snow;

 

   

regulatory requirements imposed by coastal state regulators in the wake of hurricanes or other natural disasters, including limitations on the ability to exit markets or to non-renew, cancel or change terms and conditions in policies, as well as mandatory assessments to fund any shortfalls arising from the inability of quasi-governmental insurers to pay claims;

 

   

man-made disasters, including the possible occurrence of terrorist attacks, the unpredictability of the nature, targets, severity or frequency of such events and the effect of the absence or insufficiency of applicable terrorism legislation on coverages; and

 

   

the occurrence of epidemics.

Risks and uncertainties primarily affecting us and our energy subsidiaries

 

   

the impact of changes in worldwide supply and demand for oil and natural gas and oil and gas price fluctuations on E&P activity, including the reduced demand for offshore drilling services;

 

   

timing and cost of completion of rig upgrades, construction projects and other capital projects, including delivery dates and drilling contracts;

 

   

changes in foreign and domestic oil and gas exploration, development and production activity;

 

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risks of international operations, compliance with foreign laws and taxation policies and seizure, expropriation, nationalization, deprivation, malicious damage or other loss of possession or use of equipment and assets;

 

   

government policies regarding exploration and development of oil and gas reserves;

 

   

market conditions in the offshore oil and gas drilling industry, including utilization levels and dayrates;

 

   

timing and duration of required regulatory inspections for offshore oil and gas drilling rigs;

 

   

the worldwide political and military environment, including for example, in oil-producing regions and locations where Diamond Offshore’s offshore drilling rigs are operating or are under construction;

 

   

the risk of physical damage to rigs and equipment caused by named windstorms in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico;

 

   

the availability, cost limits and adequacy of insurance and indemnification;

 

   

the impact of new pipelines, new gas supply sources and commodity price changes on competition and basis spreads on Boardwalk Pipeline’s pipeline systems, which may impact its ability to maintain or replace expiring gas transportation and storage contracts, to contract and physically make its pipeline systems bi-directional, and to sell short term capacity on its pipelines;

 

   

the costs of maintaining and ensuring the integrity and reliability of Boardwalk Pipeline’s pipeline systems; the need to remove pipeline and other assets from service as a result of such activities, and the timing and financial impacts of returning any such assets to service;

 

   

the impact of current and future environmental laws and regulations and exposure to environmental liabilities including matters related to global climate change;

 

   

regulatory issues affecting natural gas transmission, including ratemaking and other proceedings particularly affecting Boardwalk Pipeline’s gas transmission subsidiaries; and

 

   

the timing, cost, scope and financial performance of Boardwalk Pipeline’s recent, current and future acquisitions and growth projects, including the expansion into new product lines and geographical areas, especially in light of the recently depressed price levels of oil and natural gas prices which can influence the associated production of these commodities.

Risks and uncertainties affecting us and our subsidiaries generally

 

   

general economic and business conditions;

 

   

risks of war, military operations, other armed hostilities, terrorist acts or embargoes;

 

   

potential changes in accounting policies by the Financial Accounting Standards Board, the Securities and Exchange Commission or regulatory agencies for any of our subsidiaries’ industries which may cause us or our subsidiaries to revise their financial accounting and/or disclosures in the future, and which may change the way analysts measure our and our subsidiaries’ business or financial performance;

 

   

the impact of regulatory initiatives and compliance with governmental regulations, judicial rulings and jury verdicts;

 

   

the results of financing efforts; by us and our subsidiaries, including any additional investments by us in our subsidiaries and the ability of us and our subsidiaries to access bank and capital markets to refinance indebtedness and fund capital needs;

 

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the ability of customers and suppliers to meet their obligations to us and our subsidiaries;

 

   

the successful negotiation, consummation and completion of potential acquisitions and divestitures, projects and agreements, including obtaining necessary regulatory and customer approvals, and the timing cost, scope and financial performance of any such transactions, projects and agreements;

 

   

the successful integration, transition and management of acquired businesses;

 

   

the outcome of pending or future litigation, including any tobacco-related suits to which we are or may become a party;

 

   

possible casualty losses;

 

   

the availability of indemnification by Lorillard and its subsidiaries for any tobacco-related liabilities that we may incur as a result of tobacco-related lawsuits or otherwise, as provided in the Separation Agreement; and

 

   

potential future asset impairments.

Developments in any of these or other areas of risk and uncertainty, which are more fully described elsewhere in this Report and our other filings with the SEC, could cause our results to differ materially from results that have been or may be anticipated or projected. Given these risks and uncertainties, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this Report and we expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to update these statements to reflect any change in our expectations or beliefs or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any forward-looking statement is based.

Item 7A.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.

We are a large diversified holding company. As such, we and our subsidiaries have significant amounts of financial instruments that involve market risk. Our measure of market risk exposure represents an estimate of the change in fair value of our financial instruments. Changes in the trading portfolio are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Market risk exposure is presented for each class of financial instrument held by us at December 31, assuming immediate adverse market movements of the magnitude described below. We believe that the various rates of adverse market movements represent a measure of exposure to loss under hypothetically assumed adverse conditions. The estimated market risk exposure represents the hypothetical loss to future earnings and does not represent the maximum possible loss nor any expected actual loss, even under adverse conditions, because actual adverse fluctuations would likely differ. In addition, since our investment portfolio is subject to change based on our portfolio management strategy as well as in response to changes in the market, these estimates are not necessarily indicative of the actual results which may occur.

Exposure to market risk is managed and monitored by senior management. Senior management approves our overall investment strategy and has responsibility to ensure that the investment positions are consistent with that strategy with an acceptable level of risk. We may manage risk by buying or selling instruments or entering into offsetting positions.

Interest Rate Risk – We have exposure to interest rate risk arising from changes in the level or volatility of interest rates. We attempt to mitigate our exposure to interest rate risk by utilizing instruments such as interest rate swaps, commitments to purchase securities, options, futures and forwards. We monitor our sensitivity to interest rate changes by revaluing financial assets and liabilities using a variety of different interest rates. The Company uses duration and convexity at the security level to estimate the change in fair value that would result from a change in each security’s yield. Duration measures the price sensitivity of an asset to changes in the yield rate. Convexity measures how the duration of the asset changes with interest rates. The duration and convexity analysis takes into account the unique characteristics (e.g., call and put options and prepayment expectations) of each security, in determining the hypothetical change in fair value. The analysis is performed at the security level and is aggregated up to the asset category level.

 

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The evaluation is performed by applying an instantaneous change in the yield rates by varying magnitudes on a static balance sheet to determine the effect such a change in rates would have on the recorded market value of our investments and the resulting effect on shareholders’ equity. The analysis presents the sensitivity of the market value of our financial instruments to selected changes in market rates and prices which we believe are reasonably possible over a one year period.

The sensitivity analysis estimates the change in the fair value of our interest sensitive assets and liabilities that were held on December 31, 2014 and 2013 due to an instantaneous change in the yield of the security at the end of the period of 100 basis points, with all other variables held constant.

The interest rates on certain types of assets and liabilities may fluctuate in advance of changes in market interest rates, while interest rates on other types may lag behind changes in market rates. Accordingly, the analysis may not be indicative of, is not intended to provide, and does not provide a precise forecast of the effect of changes of market interest rates on our earnings or shareholders’ equity. Further, the computations do not contemplate any actions we could undertake in response to changes in interest rates.

Our debt is denominated in U.S. Dollars and has been primarily issued at fixed rates, therefore, interest expense would not be impacted by interest rate shifts. The impact of a 100 basis point increase in interest rates on fixed rate debt would result in a decrease in market value of $606 million and $616 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013. The impact of a 100 basis point decrease would result in an increase in market value of $671 million and $698 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013. At December 31, 2014, the impact of a 100 basis point increase in interest rates on variable rate debt would increase interest expense by approximately $3 million on an annual basis.

Equity Price Risk – We have exposure to equity price risk as a result of our investment in equity securities and equity derivatives. Equity price risk results from changes in the level or volatility of equity prices which affect the value of equity securities or instruments that derive their value from such securities or indexes. Equity price risk was measured assuming an instantaneous 25% decrease in the underlying reference price or index from its level at December 31, 2014 and 2013, with all other variables held constant. A model was developed to analyze the observed changes in the value of limited partnerships held by the Company over a multiple year period along with the corresponding changes in various equity indices. The result of the model allowed us to estimate the change in value of limited partnerships when equity markets decline by 25%.

Foreign Exchange Rate Risk – Foreign exchange rate risk arises from the possibility that changes in foreign currency exchange rates will impact the value of financial instruments. We have foreign exchange rate exposure when we buy or sell foreign currencies or financial instruments denominated in a foreign currency, which is reduced through the use of forward contracts. Our foreign transactions are primarily denominated in Australian dollars, Canadian dollars, British pounds, Brazilian reais, European Monetary Unit and Mexican pesos. The sensitivity analysis assumes an instantaneous 20% decrease in the foreign currency exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar from their levels at December 31, 2014 and 2013, with all other variables held constant.

Commodity Price Risk – We have exposure to price risk as a result of our investments in commodities. Commodity price risk results from changes in the level or volatility of commodity prices that impact instruments which derive their value from such commodities. Commodity price risk was measured assuming an instantaneous increase of 20% from their levels at December 31, 2014 and 2013. The impact of a change in commodity prices on the Company’s non-trading commodity-based financial derivative instruments at a point in time is not necessarily representative of the results that will be realized when such contracts are ultimately settled. Net losses from commodity derivative instruments used for hedging purposes, to the extent realized, will generally be offset by recognition of the underlying hedged transaction, such as revenue from sales.

Credit Risk – We are exposed to credit risk relating to the risk of loss resulting from the nonperformance by a customer of its contractual obligations. Although nearly all of the Company’s customers pay for its services on a timely basis, the Company actively monitors the credit exposure to its customers. Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries may perform credit reviews of customers and may require customers to provide cash collateral, post a letter of credit, prepay for services or provide other credit enhancements.

 

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The following tables present our market risk by category (equity prices, interest rates, foreign exchange rates and commodity prices) on the basis of those entered into for trading purposes and other than trading purposes.

Trading portfolio:

 

Category of risk exposure: Fair Value Asset (Liability)   Market Risk      

 

 
December 31 2014     2013     2014     2013            

 

 
(In millions)                

Equity prices (1):

Equity securities – long

    $ 482    $ 645    $ (120 $ (161)         

  – short

  (110   (17   28      4          

Options – purchased

  24      41      (5   155          

  – written

  (19   (23         (30           (55)         

Interest rate (2):

Fixed maturities – long

  120      123      (5   (3)         

 – short

  (414   (34

Short term investments

  4,015        3,261   

Other invested assets

  102      1   

Other derivatives

  (3   (2   (3)         

Foreign exchange (3):

Forwards and options

  6      (5

 

Note:

The calculation of estimated market risk exposure is based on assumed adverse changes in the underlying reference price or index of (1) a decrease in equity prices of 25%, (2) a decrease in yield rates of 100 basis points and (3) a decrease in the foreign currency exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar of 20%. Adverse changes on options which differ from those presented above would not necessarily result in a proportionate change to the estimated market risk exposure.

 

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Other than trading portfolio:

 

Category of risk exposure: Fair Value Asset (Liability)   Market Risk      

 

 
December 31 2014     2013     2014     2013            

 

 
(In millions)                
                 

Equity prices (1):

Equity securities:

General accounts (a)

$ 222    $ 185    $ (56 $ (46)         

Limited partnership investments

  3,674      3,420      (514   (447)         

Interest rate (2):

Fixed maturities (a)

      40,765            41,197       (2,650     (2,808)         

Short term investments (a)

  1,999      3,511      (3   (2)         

Other invested assets, primarily mortgage loans

  608      515      (30   (24)         

Other derivatives

  (3   17   

Separate accounts:

Fixed maturities

  149      (2)         

Short term investments

  28   

Foreign exchange (3):

Forwards – short

  (5   1      (12   (20)         

Other invested assets

  41      54      (5   (7)         

Commodities (4):

Forwards – short (b)

  1      (2)         

 

 

 

Note:

The calculation of estimated market risk exposure is based on assumed adverse changes in the underlying reference price or index of (1) a decrease in equity prices of 25%, (2) an increase in yield rates of 100 basis points, (3) a decrease in the foreign currency exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar of 20% and (4) an increase in commodity prices of 20%.

 

(a)

Certain securities are denominated in foreign currencies. An assumed 20% decline in the underlying exchange rates would result in an aggregate foreign currency exchange rate risk of $(481) and $(482) at December 31, 2014 and 2013.

(b)

The market risk at December 31, 2014 and 2013 will generally be offset by recognition of the underlying hedged transaction.

 

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Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data are comprised of the following sections:

 

  Page  
        No.        

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

  97          

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

  98          

Consolidated Balance Sheets

  100          

Consolidated Statements of Income

  102          

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

  103          

Consolidated Statements of Equity

  104          

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

  106          

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements:

  108          

  1.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

  108          

  2.

Acquisitions and Divestitures

  116          

  3.

Investments

  118          

  4.

Fair Value

  123          

  5.

Derivative Financial Instruments

  131          

  6.

Receivables

  132          

  7.

Property, Plant and Equipment

  132          

  8.

Goodwill

  134          

  9.

Claim and Claim Adjustment Expense Reserves

  134          

10.

Leases

  142          

11.

Income Taxes

  142          

12.

Debt

  146          

13.

Shareholders’ Equity

  149          

14.

Statutory Accounting Practices

  150          

15.

Benefit Plans

  151          

16.

Reinsurance

  159          

17.

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

  161          

18.

Legal Proceedings

  161          

19.

Commitments and Contingencies

  162          

20.

Discontinued Operations

  163          

21.

Business Segments

  164          

22.

Consolidating Financial Information

  168          

 

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MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for us. Our internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance to our management and Board of Directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements.

There are inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any control system, however well designed, including the possibility of human error and the possible circumvention or overriding of controls. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Management must make judgments with respect to the relative cost and expected benefits of any specific control measure. The design of a control system also is based in part upon assumptions and judgments made by management about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that a control will be effective under all potential future conditions. As a result, even an effective system of internal control over financial reporting can provide no more than reasonable assurance with respect to the fair presentation of financial statements and the processes under which they were prepared.

Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013). Based on this assessment, our management believes that, as of December 31, 2014, our internal control over financial reporting was effective.

Our independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, has issued an audit report on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. The report of Deloitte & Touche LLP follows this Report.

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of

Loews Corporation

New York, NY

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Loews Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying management’s report on internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules as of and for the year ended December 31, 2014 of the Company and our report dated February 23, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

New York, NY

February 23, 2015

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of

Loews Corporation

New York, NY

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Loews Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014. Our audits also included the financial statement schedules listed in the Index at Item 15. These consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Loews Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 23, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

 

New York, NY

February 23, 2015

 

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Loews Corporation and Subsidiaries

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

 

 
Assets:        

 

 

 

December 31

2014   2013      

 

 
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)        

Investments:

Fixed maturities, amortized cost of $37,469 and $39,426

$     40,885    $     41,320         

Equity securities, cost of $733 and $881

  728      871         

Limited partnership investments

  3,674      3,420         

Other invested assets, primarily mortgage loans

  731      562         

Short term investments

  6,014      6,772         

 

 

Total investments

  52,032      52,945         

Cash

  364      294         

Receivables

  7,770      9,338         

Property, plant and equipment

  15,611      13,524         

Goodwill

  374      357         

Assets of discontinued operations

  1,041         

Other assets

  1,616      1,635         

Deferred acquisition costs of insurance subsidiaries

  600      624         

Separate account business

  181         

 

 

Total assets

$ 78,367    $ 79,939         

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

 

 
Liabilities and Equity:        

 

 

 

December 31

2014   2013     

 

 
(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)        

Insurance reserves:

Claim and claim adjustment expense

$     23,271    $     24,089         

Future policy benefits

  9,490      10,471         

Unearned premiums

  3,592      3,718         

Policyholders’ funds

  27      116         

 

 

Total insurance reserves

  36,380      38,394         

Payable to brokers

  673      134         

Short term debt

  335      819         

Long term debt

  10,333      9,525         

Deferred incomes taxes

  893      716         

Liabilities of discontinued operations

  632         

Other liabilities

  5,103      4,632         

Separate account business

  181         

 

 

Total liabilities

  53,717      55,033         

 

 

Commitments and contingent liabilities

Shareholders’ equity:

Preferred stock, $0.10 par value:

Authorized – 100,000,000 shares

Common stock, $0.01 par value:

Authorized – 1,800,000,000 shares

Issued and outstanding – 372,934,540 and 387,210,096 shares

  4      4         

Additional paid-in capital

  3,481      3,607         

Retained earnings

  15,515      15,508         

Accumulated other comprehensive income

  280      339         

 

 

Total shareholders’ equity

  19,280      19,458         

Noncontrolling interests

  5,370      5,448         

 

 

Total equity

  24,650      24,906         

 

 

Total liabilities and equity

$ 78,367    $ 79,939         

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

 

Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012      

 

 
(In millions, except per share data)            

Revenues:

Insurance premiums

$ 7,212    $ 7,271    $ 6,881        

Net investment income

  2,163      2,425      2,177        

Investment gains (losses):

Other-than-temporary impairment losses

  (77   (74   (127)       

Portion of other-than-temporary impairment losses recognized in Other comprehensive income (loss)

  (2   (23)       

 

 

Net impairment losses recognized in earnings

  (77   (76   (150)       

Other net investment gains

  131      92      198        

 

 

Total investment gains

  54      16      48        

Contract drilling revenues

  2,737      2,844      2,936        

Other revenues

  2,159      2,057      2,030        

 

 

Total

  14,325      14,613      14,072        

 

 

Expenses:

Insurance claims and policyholders’ benefits

  5,591      5,806      5,729        

Amortization of deferred acquisition costs

  1,317      1,362      1,274        

Contract drilling expenses

  1,524      1,573      1,537        

Other operating expenses

  3,585      3,170      3,084        

Interest

  498      425      426        

 

 

Total

  12,515      12,336      12,050        

 

 

Income before income tax

  1,810      2,277      2,022        

Income tax expense

  (457   (656   (513)       

 

 

Income from continuing operations

  1,353      1,621      1,509        

Discontinued operations, net

  (391   (552   (399)       

 

 

Net income

  962      1,069      1,110        

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (371   (474   (542)       

 

 

Net income attributable to Loews Corporation

$ 591    $ 595    $ 568        

 

 

Net income attributable to Loews Corporation:

Income from continuing operations

$ 962    $ 1,149    $ 968        

Discontinued operations, net

  (371   (554   (400)       

 

 

Net income

$ 591    $ 595    $ 568        

 

 

Basic net income per common share:

Income from continuing operations

$ 2.52    $ 2.96    $ 2.45        

Discontinued operations, net

  (0.97   (1.43   (1.01)       

 

 

Net income

$ 1.55    $ 1.53    $ 1.44        

 

 

Diluted net income per common share:

Income from continuing operations

$ 2.52    $ 2.95    $ 2.44        

Discontinued operations, net

  (0.97   (1.42   (1.01)       

 

 

Net income

$ 1.55    $ 1.53    $ 1.43        

 

 

Dividends per share

$ 0.25    $ 0.25    $ 0.25        

Basic weighted average number of shares outstanding

  381.92      388.64      395.12        

Diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding

       382.55           389.51           395.87        

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

 

Year Ended December 31       2014               2013               2012             

 

 
(In millions)            

Net income

$ 962    $ 1,069    $ 1,110        

 

 

Other comprehensive income (loss), after tax

Changes in:

Net unrealized gains on investments with other-than-temporary impairments

  15      6      84        

Net other unrealized gains (losses) on investments

  267      (679   339        

 

 

Total unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale investments

  282      (673   423        

Discontinued operations

  (19   (23   (11)       

Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges

  (3   3        

Pension liability

  (235   329      (132)       

Foreign currency

  (94   (11   39        

 

 

Other comprehensive income (loss)

  (69   (378   322        

 

 

Comprehensive income

  893      691      1,432        

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

    (361     (437     (575)       

 

 

Total comprehensive income attributable to Loews Corporation

$ 532    $ 254    $ 857        

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY

 

           Loews Corporation Shareholders    
     Total       Common  
Stock
      Additional 
Paid-in
Capital
       Retained  
Earnings
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
     Common
Stock
Held in
Treasury
        Noncontrolling
Interests

 

(In millions)                                                

Balance, January 1, 2012

   $ 23,203      $ 4           $ 3,494          $ 14,890      $ 384            $ -        $        4,431     

Net income

     1,110              568             542     

Other comprehensive income

     322                289                33     

Dividends paid

     (549           (99          (450)    

Issuance of equity securities by subsidiary

     774           115              5                654     

Purchases of Loews treasury stock

     (222                (222    

Retirement of treasury stock

     -           (47)           (165        212       

Issuance of Loews common stock

     13           13                  

Stock-based compensation

     23           20                   3     

Other

     2              (2          4     

 

Balance, December 31, 2012

       24,676        4               3,595              15,192        678              (10     5,217     

Net income

     1,069              595             474     

Other comprehensive loss

     (378               (341)               (37)    

Dividends paid

     (597           (97          (500)    

Issuance of equity securities by subsidiary

     337           51              2                284     

Purchases of Loews treasury stock

     (218                      (218    

Retirement of treasury stock

     -           (48)           (180        228       

Issuance of Loews common stock

     5           5                  

Stock-based compensation

     18           3                   15     

Other

     (6        1            (2          (5)    

 

Balance, December 31, 2013

   $   24,906      $   4           $   3,607          $   15,508      $   339            $ -        $        5,448     

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY

 

           Loews Corporation Shareholders    
     Total        Common  
Stock
     Additional
Paid-in
Capital
       Retained  
  Earnings  
     Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
    

Common
Stock

Held in
Treasury

        Noncontrolling
Interests

 

(In millions)                                                 

Balance, December 31, 2013

   $ 24,906      $ 4             $     3,607          $     15,508            $         339            $ -           $     5,448        

Net income

     962              591                   371        

Other comprehensive loss

     (69              (59)               (10)       

Dividends paid

     (433           (95)                  (338)       

Purchases of subsidiary stock from noncontrolling interests

     (144        (9)                   (135)       

Purchases of Loews treasury stock

     (622                         (622)         

Retirement of treasury stock

     -           (136)           (486)                622          

Issuance of Loews common stock

     6           6                   

Stock-based compensation

     26           13                    13        

Other

     18              (3)                  21        

 

Balance, December 31, 2014

$   24,650    $ 4          $ 3,481       $ 15,515         $ 280        $ -       $     5,370        

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

Year Ended December 31      2014              2013               2012        

 

(In millions)

 

Operating Activities:

Net income

$ 962    $ 1,069    $ 1,110        
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided (used) by operating activities:

Loss on sale of subsidiaries

  451   

Investment gains

  (47   (26   (57)       

Undistributed (earnings) losses

  64      (380   (103)       

Amortization of investments

  3      (24   (50)       

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

  899      871      905        

Impairment of goodwill

  636   

Asset impairments

  228      325      742        

Provision for deferred income taxes

  11      6      (22)       

Other non-cash items

  134      49      (7)       

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net:

Receivables

  738      87      327        

Deferred acquisition costs

  44      2      (16)       

Insurance reserves

  (363   (68   430        

Other assets

  (128   (20   74        

Other liabilities

  123      470      (73)       

Trading securities

  (129   (901   (406)       

 

 

Net cash flow operating activities

  2,990      2,096      2,854        

 

 

Investing Activities:

Purchases of fixed maturities

    (9,381     (11,197   (10,299)       

Proceeds from sales of fixed maturities

  4,914      6,869      6,123        

Proceeds from maturities of fixed maturities

  3,983      3,271      3,699        

Purchases of equity securities

  (67   (77   (54)       

Proceeds from sales of equity securities

  31      103      86        

Purchases of limited partnership investments

  (271   (323   (372)       

Proceeds from sales of limited partnership investments

  167      204      227        

Purchases of property, plant and equipment

  (2,753   (1,737   (1,405)       

Acquisitions

  (448   (235   (987)       

Dispositions

  1,031      182      221        

Change in short term investments

  1,396      (101   (192)       

Other, net

  (72   (257   (142)       

 

 

Net cash flow investing activities

  (1,470   (3,298   (3,095)       

 

 

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

 

Year Ended December 31       2014               2013               2012        

 

(In millions)

 

Financing Activities:

Dividends paid

$ (95 $ (97     $ (99)       

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests

  (338   (500   (450)       

Purchases of subsidiary stock from noncontrolling interests

  (149

Purchases of Loews treasury stock

  (622   (228   (212)       

Issuance of Loews common stock

  6      5      13        

Proceeds from sale of subsidiary stock

  5      370      849        

Principal payments on debt

    (2,269     (1,494     (2,910)       

Issuance of debt

  2,004      3,255      3,152        

Other, net

  16      (40   (7)       

 

 

Net cash flow financing activities

  (1,442   1,271      336        

 

 

Effect of foreign exchange rate on cash

  (8   (3   4        

 

 

Net change in cash

  70      66      99        

Cash, beginning of year

  294      228      129        

 

 

Cash, end of year

$ 364    $ 294    $ 228        

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1.  Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of presentation – Loews Corporation is a holding company. Its subsidiaries are engaged in the following lines of business: commercial property and casualty insurance (CNA Financial Corporation (“CNA”), a 90% owned subsidiary); the operation of offshore oil and gas drilling rigs (Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc. (“Diamond Offshore”), a 52.5% owned subsidiary); transportation and storage of natural gas and natural gas liquids and gathering and processing of natural gas (Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, LP (“Boardwalk Pipeline”), a 53% owned subsidiary); and the operation of a chain of hotels (Loews Hotels Holding Corporation (“Loews Hotels”), a wholly owned subsidiary). Unless the context otherwise requires, the terms “Company,” “Loews” and “Registrant” as used herein mean Loews Corporation excluding its subsidiaries and the term “Net income (loss) attributable to Loews Corporation” as used herein means Net income (loss) attributable to Loews Corporation shareholders.

Loews segments are CNA Financial, including Specialty, Commercial, International and Other Non-Core; Diamond Offshore; Boardwalk Pipeline; Loews Hotels; and Corporate and other. See Note 21 for additional information on segments.

Principles of consolidation – The Consolidated Financial Statements include all subsidiaries and intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The equity method of accounting is used for investments in associated companies in which the Company generally has an interest of 20% to 50%.

Accounting estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and the related notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Investments – The Company classifies its fixed maturity securities and equity securities as either available-for-sale or trading, and as such, they are carried at fair value. Short term investments are carried at fair value. Changes in fair value of trading securities are reported within Net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Income. Changes in fair value related to available-for-sale securities are reported as a component of Other comprehensive income. The cost of fixed maturity securities classified as available-for-sale is adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity, which are included in Net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Income. Losses may be recognized within the Consolidated Statements of Income when a decline in value is determined by the Company to be other-than-temporary.

To the extent that unrealized gains on fixed income securities supporting long term care products and payout annuity contracts would result in a premium deficiency if those gains were realized, a related decrease in Deferred acquisition costs and/or increase in Insurance reserves are recorded, net of tax and noncontrolling interests, as a reduction of net unrealized gains through Other comprehensive income (“Shadow Adjustments”). Shadow Adjustments increased $679 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) and decreased $880 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, net unrealized gains on investments included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) were correspondingly reduced by $1.2 billion and $478 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests).

For asset-backed securities included in fixed maturity securities, the Company recognizes income using an effective yield based on anticipated prepayments and the estimated economic life of the securities. When estimates of prepayments change, the effective yield is recalculated to reflect actual payments to date and anticipated future payments. The amortized cost of high credit quality fixed rate securities is adjusted to the amount that would have existed had the new effective yield been applied since the acquisition of the securities. Such adjustments are reflected in Net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Income. Interest income on lower rated and variable rate securities is determined using the prospective yield method.

 

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The Company’s carrying value of investments in limited partnerships is its share of the net asset value of each partnership, as determined by the General Partner. Certain partnerships for which results are not available on a timely basis are reported on a lag, primarily three months or less. These investments are accounted for under the equity method and changes in net asset values are recorded within Net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Investments in derivative securities are carried at fair value with changes in fair value reported as a component of Investment gains (losses), Income (loss) from trading portfolio, or Other comprehensive income (loss), depending on their hedge designation. A derivative is typically defined as an instrument whose value is “derived” from an underlying instrument, index or rate, has a notional amount, requires little or no initial investment and can be net settled. Derivatives include, but are not limited to, the following types of investments: interest rate swaps, interest rate caps and floors, put and call options, warrants, futures, forwards, commitments to purchase securities, credit default swaps and combinations of the foregoing. Derivatives embedded within non-derivative instruments (such as call options embedded in convertible bonds) must be split from the host instrument when the embedded derivative is not clearly and closely related to the host instrument.

A security is impaired if the fair value of the security is less than its cost adjusted for accretion, amortization and previously recorded other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses, otherwise defined as an unrealized loss. When a security is impaired, the impairment is evaluated to determine whether it is temporary or other-than-temporary.

Significant judgment is required in the determination of whether an OTTI loss has occurred for a security. CNA follows a consistent and systematic process for determining and recording an OTTI loss. CNA has established a committee responsible for the OTTI process. This committee, referred to as the Impairment Committee, is made up of three officers appointed by CNA’s Chief Financial Officer. The Impairment Committee is responsible for evaluating all securities in an unrealized loss position on at least a quarterly basis.

The Impairment Committee’s assessment of whether an OTTI loss has occurred incorporates both quantitative and qualitative information. Fixed maturity securities that CNA intends to sell, or it more likely than not will be required to sell before recovery of amortized cost, are considered to be other-than-temporarily impaired and the entire difference between the amortized cost basis and fair value of the security is recognized as an OTTI loss in earnings. The remaining fixed maturity securities in an unrealized loss position are evaluated to determine if a credit loss exists. The factors considered by the Impairment Committee include: (i) the financial condition and near term prospects of the issuer, (ii) whether the debtor is current on interest and principal payments, (iii) credit ratings of the securities and (iv) general market conditions and industry or sector specific outlook. CNA also considers results and analysis of cash flow modeling for asset-backed securities, and when appropriate, other fixed maturity securities.

The focus of the analysis for asset-backed securities is on assessing the sufficiency and quality of underlying collateral and timing of cash flows based on scenario tests. If the present value of the modeled expected cash flows equals or exceeds the amortized cost of a security, no credit loss is judged to exist and the asset-backed security is deemed to be temporarily impaired. If the present value of the expected cash flows is less than amortized cost, the security is judged to be other-than-temporarily impaired for credit reasons and that shortfall, referred to as the credit component, is recognized as an OTTI loss in earnings. The difference between the adjusted amortized cost basis and fair value, referred to as the non-credit component, is recognized as OTTI in Other comprehensive income. In subsequent reporting periods, a change in intent to sell or further credit impairment on a security whose fair value has not deteriorated will cause the non-credit component originally recorded as OTTI in Other comprehensive income to be recognized as an OTTI loss in earnings.

CNA performs the discounted cash flow analysis using stressed scenarios to determine future expectations regarding recoverability. Significant assumptions enter into these cash flow projections including delinquency rates, probable risk of default, loss severity upon a default, over collateralization and interest coverage triggers and credit support from lower level tranches.

CNA applies the same impairment model as described above for the majority of non-redeemable preferred stock securities on the basis that these securities possess characteristics similar to debt securities and that the issuers maintain their ability to pay dividends. For all other equity securities, in determining whether the security is other-

 

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than-temporarily impaired, the Impairment Committee considers a number of factors including, but not limited to: (i) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than amortized cost, (ii) the financial condition and near term prospects of the issuer, (iii) the intent and ability of CNA to retain its investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for an anticipated recovery in value and (iv) general market conditions and industry or sector specific outlook.

Joint venture investments – The Company has 20% to 50% interests in operating joint ventures related to hotel properties and had joint venture interests in the Bluegrass Project, as discussed in Note 2, that are accounted for under the equity method. The Company’s investment in these entities was $158 million and $242 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 and reported in Other assets on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. Equity income (loss) for these investments was $(62) million, $12 million and $24 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 and reported in Other operating expenses on the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income. Some of these investments are variable interest entities (“VIE”) as defined in the accounting guidance because the entities will require additional funding from each equity owner throughout the development and construction phase and are accounted for under the equity method since the Company is not the primary beneficiary. The maximum exposure to loss for the VIE investments is $252 million, consisting of the amount of the investment and debt guarantees.

The following tables present summarized financial information for these joint ventures:

 

Year Ended December 31     2014   2013  

 

 
(In millions)            

Total assets

$         1,231    $         1,336         

Total liabilities

  1,025      954         
Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012  

 

 

Revenues

$         491    $ 349    $ 294         

Net income

  32      7      32         

Hedging – The Company formally documents all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as its risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking various hedging transactions. The Company also formally assesses (both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis) whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions have been highly effective in offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows of hedged items and whether those derivatives may be expected to remain highly effective in future periods. When it is determined that a derivative for which hedge accounting has been designated is not (or ceases to be) highly effective, the Company discontinues hedge accounting prospectively. See Note 5 for additional information on the Company’s use of derivatives.

Securities lending activities – The Company lends securities for the purpose of enhancing income or to finance positions to unrelated parties who have been designated as primary dealers by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Borrowers of these securities must deposit and maintain collateral with the Company of no less than 100% of the fair value of the securities loaned. U.S. Government securities and cash are accepted as collateral. The Company maintains effective control over loaned securities and, therefore, continues to report such securities as investments on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Securities lending is typically done on a matched-book basis where the collateral is invested to substantially match the term of the loan. This matching of terms tends to limit risk. In accordance with the Company’s lending agreements, securities on loan are returned immediately to the Company upon notice. Collateral is not reflected as an asset of the Company. There was no collateral held at December 31, 2014 and 2013.

Revenue recognition – Premiums on property and casualty insurance contracts are recognized in proportion to the underlying risk insured which principally are earned ratably over the duration of the policies. Premiums on long term care contracts are earned ratably over the policy year in which they are due. The reserve for unearned premiums represents the portion of premiums written relating to the unexpired terms of coverage.

 

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Insurance receivables include balances due currently or in the future, including amounts due from insureds related to losses under high deductible policies, and are presented at unpaid balances, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. Amounts are considered past due based on policy payment terms. That allowance is determined based on periodic evaluations of aged receivables, management’s experience and current economic conditions. Insurance receivables and any related allowance are written off after collection efforts are exhausted or a negotiated settlement is reached.

Property and casualty contracts that are retrospectively rated contain provisions that result in an adjustment to the initial policy premium depending on the contract provisions and loss experience of the insured during the experience period. For such contracts, CNA estimates the amount of ultimate premiums that it may earn upon completion of the experience period and recognizes either an asset or a liability for the difference between the initial policy premium and the estimated ultimate premium. CNA adjusts such estimated ultimate premium amounts during the course of the experience period based on actual results to date. The resulting adjustment is recorded as either a reduction of or an increase to the earned premiums for the period.

Contract drilling revenue from dayrate drilling contracts is recognized as services are performed. In connection with such drilling contracts, Diamond Offshore may receive fees (either lump-sum or dayrate) for the mobilization of equipment. These fees are earned as services are performed over the initial term of the related drilling contracts. Absent a contract, mobilization costs are recognized currently. From time to time, Diamond Offshore may receive fees from its customers for capital improvements to their rigs. Diamond Offshore defers such fees received and recognizes these fees into revenue on a straight-line basis over the period of the related drilling contract. Diamond Offshore capitalizes the costs of such capital improvements and depreciates them over the estimated useful life of the improvement.

Revenues from transportation and storage services are recognized in the period the service is provided based on contractual terms and the related transported and stored volumes. The majority of Boardwalk Pipeline’s operating subsidiaries are subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”) regulations and, accordingly, certain revenues collected may be subject to possible refunds to its customers. An estimated refund liability is recorded considering regulatory proceedings, advice of counsel and estimated total exposure.

Claim and claim adjustment expense reserves – Claim and claim adjustment expense reserves, except reserves for structured settlements not associated with asbestos and environmental pollution (“A&EP”), workers’ compensation lifetime claims and accident and health claims are not discounted and are based on (i) case basis estimates for losses reported on direct business, adjusted in the aggregate for ultimate loss expectations; (ii) estimates of incurred but not reported losses; (iii) estimates of losses on assumed reinsurance; (iv) estimates of future expenses to be incurred in the settlement of claims; (v) estimates of salvage and subrogation recoveries and (vi) estimates of amounts due from insureds related to losses under high deductible policies. Management considers current conditions and trends as well as past CNA and industry experience in establishing these estimates. The effects of inflation, which can be significant, are implicitly considered in the reserving process and are part of the recorded reserve balance. Ceded claim and claim adjustment expense reserves are reported as a component of Receivables on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Claim and claim adjustment expense reserves are presented net of anticipated amounts due from insureds related to losses under deductible policies of $1.4 billion and $1.3 billion as of December 31, 2014 and 2013. A significant portion of these amounts are supported by collateral. CNA also has an allowance for uncollectible deductible amounts, which is presented as a component of the allowance for doubtful accounts included in Receivables on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Structured settlements have been negotiated for certain property and casualty insurance claims. Structured settlements are agreements to provide fixed periodic payments to claimants. CNA’s obligations for structured settlements not funded by annuities are included in claim and claim adjustment expense reserves and carried at present values determined using interest rates ranging from 5.5% to 8.0% at December 31, 2014 and 7.1% to 9.7% at December 31, 2013. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the discounted reserves for unfunded structured settlements were $582 million and $580 million, net of discount of $924 million and $969 million.

 

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Workers’ compensation lifetime claim reserves are calculated using mortality assumptions determined through statutory regulation and economic factors. Accident and health claim reserves are calculated using mortality and morbidity assumptions based on CNA and industry experience. Workers’ compensation lifetime claim reserves and accident and health claim reserves are discounted at interest rates ranging from 3.5% to 6.8% at December 31, 2014 and 3.0% to 6.8% at December 31, 2013. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, such discounted reserves totaled $2.5 billion and $2.4 billion, net of discount of $654 million and $617 million.

Future policy benefits reserves – Reserves for long term care policies and payout annuity contracts are computed using the net level premium method, which incorporates actuarial assumptions as to morbidity, persistency, discount rate and expenses. Expense assumptions primarily relate to claim adjudication. Actuarial assumptions generally vary by plan, age at issue and policy duration. The initial assumptions are determined at issuance, include a margin for adverse deviation and are locked in throughout the life of the contract unless a premium deficiency develops. If a premium deficiency emerges, the assumptions are unlocked and deferred acquisition costs, if any, and the future policy benefit reserves are adjusted. Interest rates for long term care products range from 4.5% to 7.9% at December 31, 2014 and 2013. Interest rates for payout annuity contracts ranged from 5.0% to 8.7% at December 31, 2013.

Policyholders’ funds reserves – Policyholders’ funds reserves on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2013 primarily included reserves for investment contracts without life contingencies. For these contracts, policyholder liabilities are generally equal to the accumulated policy account values, which consist of an accumulation of deposit payments plus credited interest, less withdrawals and amounts assessed through the end of the period.

Guaranty fund and other insurance-related assessments – Liabilities for guaranty fund and other insurance-related assessments are accrued when an assessment is probable, when it can be reasonably estimated and when the event obligating the entity to pay an imposed or probable assessment has occurred. Liabilities for guaranty funds and other insurance-related assessments are not discounted and are included as part of Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the liability balances were $131 million and $143 million.

Reinsurance – Reinsurance accounting allows for contractual cash flows to be reflected as premiums and losses. To qualify for reinsurance accounting, reinsurance agreements must include risk transfer. To meet risk transfer requirements, a reinsurance contract must include both insurance risk, consisting of underwriting and timing risk, and a reasonable possibility of a significant loss for the assuming entity.

Reinsurance receivables related to paid losses are presented at unpaid balances. Reinsurance receivables related to unpaid losses are estimated in a manner consistent with claim and claim adjustment expense reserves or future policy benefits reserves. Reinsurance receivables are reported net of an allowance for doubtful accounts on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The cost of reinsurance is primarily accounted for over the life of the underlying reinsured policies using assumptions consistent with those used to account for the underlying policies or over the reinsurance contract period. The ceding of insurance does not discharge the primary liability of CNA.

CNA has established an allowance for doubtful accounts on reinsurance receivables which relates to both amounts already billed on ceded paid losses as well as ceded reserves that will be billed when losses are paid in the future. The allowance for doubtful accounts on reinsurance receivables is estimated on the basis of periodic evaluations of balances due from reinsurers, reinsurer solvency, management’s experience and current economic conditions. Reinsurer financial strength ratings are updated and reviewed on an annual basis or sooner if CNA becomes aware of significant changes related to a reinsurer. Because billed receivables generally approximate 5% or less of total reinsurance receivables, the age of the reinsurance receivables related to paid losses is not a significant input into the allowance analysis. Changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts on reinsurance receivables are presented as a component of Insurance claims and policyholders’ benefits on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Amounts are considered past due based on the reinsurance contract terms. Reinsurance receivables related to paid losses and any related allowance are written off after collection efforts have been exhausted or a negotiated settlement is reached with the reinsurer. Reinsurance receivables related to paid losses from insolvent insurers are written off when the settlement due from the estate can be reasonably estimated. At the time reinsurance receivables

 

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related to paid losses are written off, any required adjustment to reinsurance receivables related to unpaid losses is recorded as a component of Insurance claims and policyholders’ benefits on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Reinsurance contracts that do not effectively transfer the economic risk of loss on the underlying policies are recorded using the deposit method of accounting, which requires that premium paid or received by the ceding company or assuming company be accounted for as a deposit asset or liability. CNA had $3 million recorded as deposit assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013, and $9 million and $130 million recorded as deposit liabilities at December 31, 2014 and 2013. Income on reinsurance contracts accounted for under the deposit method is recognized using an effective yield based on the anticipated timing of payments and the remaining life of the contract. When the anticipated timing of payments changes, the effective yield is recalculated to reflect actual payments to date and the estimated timing of future payments. The deposit asset or liability is adjusted to the amount that would have existed had the new effective yield been applied since the inception of the contract.

A loss portfolio transfer is a retroactive reinsurance contract. If the cumulative claim and allocated claim adjustment expenses ceded under a loss portfolio transfer exceed the consideration paid, the resulting gain from such excess is deferred and amortized into earnings in future periods in proportion to actual recoveries under the loss portfolio transfer. In the period in which an excess arises, a portion of the deferred gain is cumulatively recognized in earnings as if the revised estimate was available at the inception date of the loss portfolio transfer.

Deferred acquisition costs – Acquisition costs include commissions, premium taxes and certain underwriting and policy issuance costs which are incremental direct costs of successful contract acquisitions. Deferred acquisition costs related to long term care contracts issued prior to January 1, 2004 include costs which vary with and are primarily related to the acquisition of business.

Acquisition costs related to property and casualty business are deferred and amortized ratably over the period the related premiums are earned.

Deferred acquisition costs related to long term care contracts are amortized over the premium-paying period of the related policies using assumptions consistent with those used for computing future policy benefit reserves for such contracts. Assumptions are made at the date of policy issuance or acquisition and are consistently applied during the lives of the contracts. Deviations from estimated experience are included in results of operations when they occur. For these contracts, the amortization period is typically the estimated life of the policy. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, deferred acquisition costs were presented net of Shadow Adjustments of $314 million and $342 million.

CNA evaluates deferred acquisition costs for recoverability. Anticipated investment income is considered in the determination of the recoverability of deferred acquisition costs. Adjustments, if necessary, are recorded in current period results of operations.

Deferred acquisition costs are presented net of ceding commissions and other ceded acquisition costs. Unamortized deferred acquisition costs relating to contracts that have been substantially changed by a modification in benefits, features, rights or coverages that were not anticipated in the original contract are not deferred and are included as a charge to operations in the period during which the contract modification occurred.

Investments in life settlement contracts and related revenue recognition – Prior to 2002, CNA purchased investments in life settlement contracts. A life settlement contract is a contract between the owner of a life insurance policy (the policy owner) and a third party investor (investor). Under a life settlement contract, CNA obtained the ownership and beneficiary rights of an underlying life insurance policy.

CNA accounts for its investments in life settlement contracts using the fair value method. Under the fair value method, each life settlement contract is carried at its fair value at the end of each reporting period. The change in fair value, life insurance proceeds received and periodic maintenance costs, such as premiums, necessary to keep the underlying policy in force, are recorded in Other revenues on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

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The fair value of CNA’s investments in life settlement contracts were $82 million and $88 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, and are included in Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The cash receipts and payments related to life settlement contracts are included in Cash flows from operating activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

The following table details the values for life settlement contracts. The determination of fair value is discussed in Note 4.

 

  Number of Life
Settlement
Contracts
  Fair Value of Life
Settlement
Contracts
 

Face Amount of    

Life Insurance    
Policies    

 

 

 
(Dollar amounts in millions)            

Estimated maturity during:

2015

  60              $ 11                $ 37                 

2016

  60                10                  33                 

2017

  50                9                  30                 

2018

  50                7                  26                 

2019

  50                6                  26                 

Thereafter

  318                39                  187                 

 

 

Total

  588              $ 82                $ 339                 

 

 

CNA uses an actuarial model to estimate the aggregate face amount of life insurance that is expected to mature in each future year and the corresponding fair value. This model projects the likelihood of the insured’s death for each inforce policy based upon CNA’s estimated mortality rates, which may vary due to the relatively small size of the portfolio of life settlement contracts. The number of life settlement contracts presented in the table above is based upon the average face amount of inforce policies estimated to mature in each future year.

The increase (decrease) in fair value recognized for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 on contracts still held was $8 million, $(2) million and $11 million. The gains recognized during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 on contracts that settled were $25 million, $15 million and $42 million.

Separate account business – Separate account assets and liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2013 represented contract holder funds related to investment and annuity products for which the policyholder assumes substantially all the risk and reward. The assets were segregated into accounts with specific underlying investment objectives and are legally segregated from CNA. All assets of the separate account business were carried at fair value with an equal amount recorded for separate account liabilities.

Goodwill – Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over fair value of net assets of acquired entities. Goodwill is tested for impairment annually or when certain triggering events require additional tests. Subsequent reversal of a goodwill impairment charge is not permitted. See Note 8 for additional information on goodwill.

Property, plant and equipment – Property, plant and equipment is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization (“DD&A”). Depreciation is computed principally by the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the various classes of properties. Leaseholds and leasehold improvements are depreciated or amortized over the terms of the related leases (including optional renewal periods where appropriate) or the estimated lives of improvements, if less than the lease term.

The principal service lives used in computing provisions for depreciation are as follows:

 

      Years      
Pipeline equipment   30 to 50     
Offshore drilling equipment   15 to 30     
Other   3 to 40     

 

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Impairment of long-lived assets – The Company reviews its long-lived assets for impairment when changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Long-lived assets and intangibles with finite lives, under certain circumstances, are reported at the lower of carrying amount or fair value. Assets to be disposed of and assets not expected to provide any future service potential to the Company are recorded at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less cost to sell.

Income taxes – The Company and its eligible subsidiaries file a consolidated tax return. Deferred income taxes are recognized for temporary differences between the financial statement and tax return bases of assets and liabilities, based on enacted tax rates and other provisions of the tax law. The effect of a change in tax laws or rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period in which such change is enacted. Future tax benefits are recognized to the extent that realization of such benefits is more likely than not, and a valuation allowance is established for any portion of a deferred tax asset that management believes may not be realized.

The Company recognizes uncertain tax positions that it has taken or expects to take on a tax return. The tax benefit of a qualifying position is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority having full knowledge of all relevant information. See Note 11 for additional information on the provision for income taxes.

Pension and postretirement benefits – The Company recognizes the overfunded or underfunded status of its defined benefit plans in Other assets or Other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Changes in funded status related to prior service costs and credits and actuarial gains and losses are recognized in the year in which the changes occur through Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The Company measures its benefit plan assets and obligations at December 31. Annual service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, amortization of prior service costs and credits and amortization of actuarial gains and losses are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Stock based compensation – The Company records compensation expense upon issuance of share-based payment awards for all awards it grants, modifies or cancels primarily on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, generally three to four years. The share-based payment awards are valued using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The application of this valuation model involves assumptions that are judgmental and highly sensitive in the valuation of these awards. These assumptions include the term that the awards are expected to be outstanding, an estimate of the volatility of the underlying stock price, applicable risk-free interest rates and the dividend yield of the Company’s stock.

The Company recognized compensation expense that decreased net income by $12 million, $11 million and $13 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. Several of the Company’s subsidiaries also maintain their own stock option plans. The amounts reported above include the Company’s share of expense related to its subsidiaries’ plans.

Net income per share – Companies with complex capital structures are required to present basic and diluted net income per share. Basic net income per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income attributable to common stock by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted net income per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock.

For each of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, approximately 0.6 million, 0.9 million and 0.8 million potential shares attributable to exercises under the Loews Corporation Stock Option Plan were included in the calculation of diluted net income per share. For those same periods, approximately 2.3 million, 1.5 million and 2.6 million Stock Appreciation Rights (“SARs”) were not included in the calculation of diluted net income per share due to the exercise price being greater than the average stock price.

Foreign currency – Foreign currency translation gains and losses are reflected in Shareholders’ equity as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The Company’s foreign subsidiaries’ balance sheet accounts are translated at the exchange rates in effect at each reporting date and income statement accounts are translated at the average exchange rates. Foreign currency transaction losses of $22 million and $3 million and gains

 

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of $10 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 were included in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Regulatory accounting – The majority of Boardwalk Pipeline’s operating subsidiaries are regulated by FERC. GAAP for regulated entities requires Texas Gas Transmission, LLC (“Texas Gas”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Boardwalk Pipeline, to report certain assets and liabilities consistent with the economic effect of the manner in which independent third party regulators establish rates. Accordingly, certain costs and benefits are capitalized as regulatory assets and liabilities in order to provide for recovery from or refund to customers in future periods. Regulatory accounting is not applicable to Boardwalk Pipeline’s other FERC regulated entities.

Supplementary cash flow information – Cash payments made for interest on long term debt, net of capitalized interest, amounted to $501 million, $415 million and $450 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. Cash payments for federal, foreign, state and local income taxes amounted to $189 million, $183 million and $120 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. Investing activities include $14 million of previously accrued capital expenditures for the year ended December 31, 2014 and exclude $43 million and $35 million of accrued capital expenditures for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012.

Updated accounting guidance not yet adopted – In April of 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-08, “Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity.” Under the new accounting guidance, only disposals representing a strategic shift in operations should be presented as discontinued operations. The update also requires new disclosures for discontinued operations and disposals that do not meet the definition of a discontinued operation. The new accounting guidance is to be applied prospectively for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2014, and will not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In May of 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606).” The core principle of the new accounting guidance is that a company should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The new accounting guidance provides a five-step analysis of transactions to determine when and how revenue is recognized and requires enhanced disclosures about revenue. This update is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods, and can be adopted either retrospectively or as a cumulative effect adjustment at the date of adoption. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that adopting this new accounting guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements.

Note 2.  Acquisitions and Divestitures

CNA Financial

On August 1, 2014, CNA completed the sale of CAC, its life insurance subsidiary. The business sold, which was previously reported within the Other Non-Core segment, is reported as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Income for years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

In connection with the sale of CAC, CNA entered into a 100% coinsurance agreement on a separate small block of annuity business outside of CAC. The coinsurance agreement required the transfer of assets with a book value equal to the ceded reserves on the inception date of the contract. Because a substantial portion of the assets supporting these liabilities are held in trust for the benefit of the original cedant, those assets were transferred on a funds withheld basis. Under this approach CNA maintains legal ownership of the assets, but the investment income and realized gains and losses on those assets inure to the reinsurer. As a result, the $31 million (after tax and noncontrolling interests) difference between market value and book value of the funds withheld assets at the coinsurance contract’s inception was recognized in Other operating expenses.

On July 2, 2012, CNA acquired Hardy Underwriting Bermuda Limited (“Hardy”), a specialized Lloyd’s of London (“Lloyd’s”) underwriter for $231 million.

 

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HighMount

In May of 2014, the Company announced that HighMount Exploration & Production LLC (“HighMount”), its natural gas and oil exploration and production subsidiary, was pursuing strategic alternatives, including a potential sale of the business. On August 7, 2014, the Company entered into an agreement to sell HighMount to privately held affiliates of EnerVest, Ltd. and on September 30, 2014, HighMount was sold for net proceeds of $787 million. HighMount’s bank debt of $480 million was repaid from proceeds of the sale. A loss of $200 million ($138 million after tax) was recorded in connection with the sale. Results of HighMount are reported as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. As of December 31, 2014, the Company had no remaining natural gas and oil properties.

See Note 20 for further discussion of discontinued operations.

Boardwalk Pipeline

In October of 2014, Boardwalk Pipeline acquired Boardwalk Petrochemical, formerly known as Chevron Petrochemical Pipeline, LLC, which owns the Evangeline ethylene pipeline system for $295 million in cash, subject to customary adjustments. This acquisition was made as part of Boardwalk Pipeline’s long term growth and diversification strategy and to complement existing natural gas liquids (“NGLs”) and ethylene midstream assets. The purchase price was funded through borrowings under Boardwalk Pipeline’s revolving credit facility. Boardwalk Pipeline recorded $20 million of identifiable finite-lived intangible assets and $22 million of goodwill.

In 2013, Boardwalk Pipeline executed a series of agreements with the Williams Companies, Inc. (“Williams”) to develop the Bluegrass Project. In 2014, the Company expensed the previously capitalized project costs related to the development process due to cost escalations, construction delays and the lack of customer commitments, resulting in a charge of $94 million ($55 million after tax and noncontrolling interests), inclusive of a $10 million charge recorded by Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, LP. This charge was recorded within Other operating expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Income. In the fourth quarter of 2014, Boardwalk Pipeline and Williams dissolved the Bluegrass project entities.

On October 1, 2012, a joint venture between Boardwalk Pipeline and Boardwalk Pipeline Holding Corp. (“BPHC”) acquired Boardwalk Louisiana Midstream LLC, a company that provides salt dome storage, pipeline transportation, fractionation and brine supply services, from PL Logistics LLC for approximately $620 million. The acquisition was funded with proceeds from a $225 million five-year variable rate term loan and equity contributions by BPHC of $269 million for a 65% equity interest and of $148 million by Boardwalk Pipeline for a 35% equity interest. The joint venture recorded $25 million of identifiable finite-lived intangible assets and $52 million of goodwill. On October 15, 2012, Boardwalk Pipeline acquired BPHC’s 65% equity interest in the joint venture for $269 million, which did not result in any significant adjustments to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Loews Hotels

In 2014, Loews Hotels acquired three hotels for a total cost of approximately $230 million and has a commitment to purchase an additional hotel in the first quarter of 2015, upon substantial completion, for approximately $170 million, funded with a combination of cash and property-level debt.

 

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Note 3.  Investments

Net investment income is as follows:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014        2013        2012           

 

 
(In millions)            

Fixed maturity securities

  $      1,803       $      1,827       $      1,846        

Short term investments

            12        

Limited partnership investments

  304       519       283        

Equity securities

  12       12       12        

Income from trading portfolio (a)

  64       90       52        

Other

  34       25       24        

 

 

Total investment income

  2,221       2,478       2,229        

Investment expenses

  (58)      (53)      (52)       

 

 

Net investment income

  $      2,163       $      2,425       $      2,177        

 

 

 

(a)

Includes net unrealized gains (losses) related to changes in fair value on trading securities still held of $42, $(2) and $6 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company held no non-income producing fixed maturity securities. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, no investments in a single issuer exceeded 10% of shareholders’ equity other than investments in securities issued by the U.S. Treasury and obligations of government-sponsored enterprises.

Investment gains (losses) are as follows:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014        2013       2012           

 

 
(In millions)            

Fixed maturity securities

  $          41       $            41       $          77        

Equity securities

       (22)      (23)       

Derivative instruments

  (1)      (9)      (5)       

Short term investments and other

  13            (1)       

 

 

Investment gains (a)

  $          54       $            16       $          48        

 

 

 

(a)

Includes gross realized gains of $178, $198 and $241 and gross realized losses of $136, $179 and $187 on available-for-sale securities for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale investments is as follows:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014       2013       2012           

 

 
(In millions)            

Fixed maturity securities

  $      1,511      $      (2,541)      $      1,871        

Equity securities

  6      (15)      5        

Other

  (1)       

 

 

Total net change in unrealized gains on available-for-sale investments

  $      1,517      $      (2,556)      $      1,875        

 

 

 

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The components of OTTI losses recognized in earnings by asset type are as follows:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014       2013       2012            

 

 
(In millions)            

Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale:

Corporate and other bonds

  $           18      $           20      $          25         

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

  46      34         

Asset-backed:

Residential mortgage-backed

  5      19      48         

Other asset-backed

  1      2   

 

 

Total asset-backed

  6      21      48         

U.S. Treasury and obligations of government-sponsored enterprises

  1         

 

 

Total fixed maturities available-for-sale

  70      41      108         

 

 

Equity securities available-for-sale:

Common stock

  7      8      6         

Preferred stock

  26      36         

 

 

Total equity securities available-for-sale

  7      34      42         

 

 

Short term investments

  1   

 

 

Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings

  $           77      $           76      $          150         

 

 

 

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The amortized cost and fair values of securities are as follows:

 

December 31, 2014

Cost or

Amortized

Cost

 

Gross

Unrealized

Gains

 

Gross

Unrealized

Losses

 

Estimated

Fair Value

 

Unrealized 

OTTI Losses 

(Gains) 

 

 

 
(In millions)                    

Fixed maturity securities:

Corporate and other bonds

  $    17,226      $  1,721          $      61          $    18,886   

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

  11,285      1,463          8          12,740   

Asset-backed:

Residential mortgage-backed

  5,028      218          13          5,233      $       (53)         

Commercial mortgage-backed

  2,056      93          5          2,144      (2)         

Other asset-backed

  1,234      11          10          1,235   

 

 

Total asset-backed

  8,318      322          28          8,612      (55)         

U.S. Treasury and obligations of government-sponsored enterprises

  26      5          31   

Foreign government

  438      16          454   

Redeemable preferred stock

  39      3          42   

 

 

Fixed maturities available-for-sale

  37,332      3,530          97          40,765      (55)         

Fixed maturities, trading

  137      17          120   

 

 

Total fixed maturities

  37,469      3,530          114          40,885      (55)         

 

 

Equity securities:

Common stock

  38      9          47   

Preferred stock

  172      5          2          175   

 

 

Equity securities available-for-sale

  210      14          2          222      -          

Equity securities, trading

  523      96          113          506   

 

 

Total equity securities

  733      110          115          728      -          

 

 

Total

  $    38,202      $  3,640          $      229          $    41,613      $       (55)         

 

 
December 31, 2013                    

 

 

Fixed maturity securities:

Corporate and other bonds

  $    19,352      $  1,645          $      135        $     20,862   

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

  11,281      548          272          11,557   

Asset-backed:

Residential mortgage-backed

  4,940      123          92          4,971      $       (37)         

Commercial mortgage-backed

  1,995      90          22          2,063      (3)         

Other asset-backed

  945      13          3          955   

 

 

Total asset-backed

  7,880      226          117          7,989      (40)         

U.S. Treasury and obligations of government-sponsored enterprises

  139      6          1          144   

Foreign government

  531      15          3          543   

Redeemable preferred stock

  92      10          102   

 

 

Fixed maturities available-for-sale

  39,275      2,450          528          41,197      (40)         

Fixed maturities, trading

  151      28          123   

 

 

Total fixed maturities

  39,426      2,450          556          41,320      (40)         

 

 

Equity securities:

Common stock

  36      9          45   

Preferred stock

  143      1          4          140   

 

 

Equity securities available-for-sale

  179      10          4          185      -          

Equity securities, trading

  702      119          135          686   

 

 

Total equity securities

  881      129          139          871      -          

 

 

Total

  $    40,307      $  2,579          $      695          $    42,191      $       (40)         

 

 

 

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The available-for-sale securities in a gross unrealized loss position are as follows:

 

 

Less than

12 Months

 

12 Months

or Longer

  Total  
 

 

 

 
December 31, 2014 Estimated
Fair Value
  Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  Estimated
Fair Value
  Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  Estimated
Fair Value
  Gross 
Unrealized 
Losses 
 

 

 
(In millions)                        

Fixed maturity securities:

Corporate and other bonds

  $     1,330             $       46          $      277              $     15          $      1,607         $     61          

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

  335             5          127              3          462         8          

Asset-backed:

Residential mortgage-backed

  293             5          189              8          482         13          

Commercial mortgage-backed

  264             2          99              3          363         5          

Other asset-backed

  607             10          7              614         10          

 

 

Total asset-backed

  1,164             17          295              11          1,459         28          

U.S. Treasury and obligations of government-sponsored enterprises

  3             4              7      

Foreign government

  3             3              6      

Redeemable preferred stock

  3             3      

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

  2,838             68          706              29          3,544         97          

Preferred stock

  17             2          1              18         2          

 

 

Total

  $     2,855             $       70          $      707              $     29          $      3,562         $     99          

 

 
December 31, 2013                        

 

 

Fixed maturity securities:

Corporate and other bonds

  $     3,592             $     129          $        72              $       6          $      3,664         $   135          

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

  3,251             197          129              75          3,380         272          

Asset-backed:

Residential mortgage-backed

  1,293             29          343              63          1,636         92          

Commercial mortgage-backed

  640             22          640         22          

Other asset-backed

  269             3          269         3          

 

 

Total asset-backed

  2,202             54          343              63          2,545         117          

U.S. Treasury and obligations of government-sponsored enterprises

  13             1          13         1          

Foreign government

  111             3          111         3          

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

  9,169             384          544              144          9,713         528          

Preferred stock

  87             4          87         4          

 

 

Total

  $     9,256             $     388          $      544              $  144          $      9,800         $   532          

 

 

Based on current facts and circumstances, the Company believes the unrealized losses presented in the table above are not indicative of the ultimate collectibility of the current amortized cost of the securities, but rather are primarily attributable to changes in interest rates and credit spreads, market illiquidity and other factors. The Company has no current intent to sell securities with unrealized losses, nor is it more likely than not that it will be required to sell prior to recovery of amortized cost; accordingly, the Company has determined that there are no additional OTTI losses to be recorded at December 31, 2014.

 

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The following table summarizes the activity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 related to the pretax credit loss component reflected in Retained earnings on fixed maturity securities still held at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 for which a portion of an OTTI loss was recognized in Other comprehensive income.

 

Year Ended December 31 2014     2013     2012           

 

 
(In millions)            

Beginning balance of credit losses on fixed maturity securities

$          74    $          95    $          92          

Additional credit losses for securities for which an OTTI loss was previously recognized

  2      23          

Credit losses for securities for which an OTTI loss was not previously recognized

  2          

Reductions for securities sold during the period

  (9   (23   (14)         

Reductions for securities the Company intends to sell or more likely than not will be required to sell

  (3   (8)         

 

 

Ending balance of credit losses on fixed maturity securities

$ 62    $ 74    $ 95          

 

 

Contractual Maturity

The following table summarizes available-for-sale fixed maturity securities by contractual maturity. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain securities may be called or prepaid with or without call or prepayment penalties. Securities not due at a single date are allocated based on weighted average life.

 

December 31 2014   2013  

 

 
  Cost or
Amortized
Cost
  Estimated
Fair Value
  Cost or
Amortized
Cost
  Estimated
Fair Value
 

 

 
(In millions)                

Due in one year or less

  $    2,479      $ 2,511       $ 2,420      $ 2,455           

Due after one year through five years

  9,070        9,621         9,496        10,068           

Due after five years through ten years

  12,055        12,584         11,667        11,954           

Due after ten years

  13,728        16,049         15,692        16,720           

 

 

Total

  $  37,332      $   40,765       $   39,275      $   41,197           

 

 

Limited Partnerships

The carrying value of limited partnerships as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 was approximately $3.7 billion and $3.4 billion which includes undistributed earnings of $1.3 billion and $1.2 billion. Limited partnerships comprising 72.4% of the total carrying value are reported on a current basis through December 31, 2014 with no reporting lag, 12.6% are reported on a one month lag and the remainder are reported on more than a one month lag. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had 92 and 93 active limited partnership investments. The number of limited partnerships held and the strategies employed provide diversification to the limited partnership portfolio and the overall invested asset portfolio.

Of the limited partnerships held, 78.6% and 79.2% at December 31, 2014 and 2013 employ hedge fund strategies that generate returns through investing in marketable securities in the public fixed income and equity markets. Limited partnerships representing 18.6% and 17.8% at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were invested in private debt and equity, and the remaining limited partnerships were primarily invested in real estate strategies. Hedge fund strategies include both long and short positions in fixed income, equity and derivative instruments. These hedge fund strategies may seek to generate gains from mispriced or undervalued securities, price differentials between securities, distressed investments, sector rotation or various arbitrage disciplines. Within hedge fund strategies, approximately 57.2% were equity related, 28.3% pursued a multi-strategy approach, 10.7% were focused on distressed investments and 3.8% were fixed income related at December 31, 2014.

 

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The ten largest limited partnership positions held totaled $1.8 billion and $1.7 billion as of December 31, 2014 and 2013. Based on the most recent information available regarding the Company’s percentage ownership of the individual limited partnerships, the carrying value reflected on the Consolidated Balance Sheets represents approximately 3.9% of the aggregate partnership equity at December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related income reflected on the Consolidated Statements of Income represents approximately 4.3%, 3.7% and 3.3% of the changes in total partnership equity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

While the Company generally does not invest in highly leveraged partnerships, there are risks which may result in losses due to short-selling, derivatives or other speculative investment practices. The use of leverage increases volatility generated by the underlying investment strategies.

The Company’s limited partnership investments contain withdrawal provisions that generally limit liquidity for a period of thirty days up to one year and in some cases do not permit withdrawals until the termination of the partnership. Typically, withdrawals require advance written notice of up to 90 days.

Investment Commitments

As of December 31, 2014, the Company had committed approximately $327 million to future capital calls from various third party limited partnership investments in exchange for an ownership interest in the related partnerships.

The Company invests in various privately placed debt securities, including bank loans, as part of its overall investment strategy and has committed to additional future purchases, sales and funding. As of December 31, 2014, the Company had commitments to purchase or fund additional amounts of $75 million and sell $97 million under the terms of such securities.

Investments on Deposit

Securities with carrying values of approximately $3.0 billion and $3.3 billion were deposited by CNA’s insurance subsidiaries under requirements of regulatory authorities and others as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.

Cash and securities with carrying values of approximately $361 million and $353 million were deposited with financial institutions as collateral for letters of credit as of December 31, 2014 and 2013. In addition, cash and securities were deposited in trusts with financial institutions to secure reinsurance and other obligations with various third parties. The carrying values of these deposits were approximately $302 million and $294 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.

Note 4.  Fair Value

Fair value is the price that would be received upon sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The following fair value hierarchy is used in selecting inputs, with the highest priority given to Level 1, as these are the most transparent or reliable:

 

   

Level 1 – Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.

 

   

Level 2 – Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs are observable in active markets.

 

   

Level 3 – Valuations derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs are not observable.

Prices may fall within Level 1, 2 or 3 depending upon the methodologies and inputs used to estimate fair value for each specific security. In general, the Company seeks to price securities using third party pricing services. Securities not priced by pricing services are submitted to independent brokers for valuation and, if those are not available, internally developed pricing models are used to value assets using methodologies and inputs the Company believes market participants would use to value the assets. Prices obtained from third party pricing services or brokers are not adjusted by the Company.

 

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The Company performs control procedures over information obtained from pricing services and brokers to ensure prices received represent a reasonable estimate of fair value and to confirm representations regarding whether inputs are observable or unobservable. Procedures include (i) the review of pricing service or broker pricing methodologies, (ii) back-testing, where past fair value estimates are compared to actual transactions executed in the market on similar dates, (iii) exception reporting, where changes in price, period-over-period, are reviewed and challenged with the pricing service or broker based on exception criteria, (iv) detailed analysis, where the Company performs an independent analysis of the inputs and assumptions used to price individual securities and (v) pricing validation, where prices received are compared to prices independently estimated by the Company.

The fair values of CNA’s life settlement contracts are included in Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Equity options purchased are included in Equity securities, and all other derivative assets are included in Receivables. Derivative liabilities are included in Payable to brokers. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized in the tables below:

 

December 31, 2014 Level 1    Level 2    Level 3    Total         

 

 
(In millions)                

Fixed maturity securities:

Corporate and other bonds

$ 32    $ 18,692    $ 162    $ 18,886        

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

  12,646      94      12,740        

Asset-backed:

Residential mortgage-backed

  5,044      189      5,233        

Commercial mortgage-backed

  2,061      83      2,144        

Other asset-backed

  580      655      1,235        

 

 

Total asset-backed

  7,685      927      8,612        

U.S. Treasury and obligations of government-sponsored enterprises

  28      3      31        

Foreign government

  41      413      454        

Redeemable preferred stock

  30      12      42        

 

 

Fixed maturities available-for-sale

  131      39,451      1,183      40,765        

Fixed maturities trading

  30      90      120        

 

 

Total fixed maturities

$ 131    $   39,481    $    1,273    $   40,885        

 

 

Equity securities available-for-sale

$ 145    $ 61    $ 16    $ 222        

Equity securities trading

  505      1      506        

 

 

Total equity securities

$ 650    $ 61    $ 17    $ 728        

 

 

Short term investments

$  4,989    $ 963    $ 5,952        

Other invested assets

  102      41      143        

Receivables

  2      7      9        

Life settlement contracts

$ 82      82        

Payable to brokers

  (546   (6   (552)       

 

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December 31, 2013 Level 1    Level 2    Level 3    Total         

 

 
(In millions)                

Fixed maturity securities:

Corporate and other bonds

$ 33    $ 20,625    $ 204    $ 20,862        

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

  11,486      71      11,557        

Asset-backed:

Residential mortgage-backed

  4,640      331      4,971        

Commercial mortgage-backed

  1,912      151      2,063        

Other asset-backed

  509      446      955        

 

 

Total asset-backed

  7,061      928      7,989        

U.S. Treasury and obligations of government-sponsored enterprises

  116      28      144        

Foreign government

  81      462      543        

Redeemable preferred stock

  45      57      102        

 

 

Fixed maturities available-for-sale

  275      39,719      1,203      41,197        

Fixed maturities trading

  43      80      123        

 

 

Total fixed maturities

$ 275    $   39,762    $    1,283    $   41,320        

 

 

Equity securities available-for-sale

$ 126    $ 48    $ 11    $ 185        

Equity securities trading

  678      8      686        

 

 

Total equity securities

$ 804    $ 48    $ 19    $ 871        

 

 

Short term investments

$  6,134    $ 563    $ 6,697        

Other invested assets

  54      54        

Receivables

  3      3        

Life settlement contracts

$ 88      88        

Separate account business

  9      171      1      181        

Payable to brokers

  (40   (1   (3   (44)       

Assets of discontinued operations

  28      2      2      32        

Liabilities of discontinued operations

  (6   (2   (8)       

 

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The tables below present reconciliations for all assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

                                                          Unrealized  
                                                          Gains  
                                                          (Losses)  
                                                           Recognized in   
          Net Realized Gains                                         Net Income  
                  (Losses) and Net Change                                             on Level  
          in Unrealized Gains                                         3 Assets and  
          (Losses)                       Transfers     Transfers           Liabilities  
    Balance,     Included in     Included in                       into     out of     Balance,     Held at  
2014   January 1     Net Income     OCI     Purchases     Sales     Settlements     Level 3     Level 3     December 31     December 31  

 

 
(In millions)                                                            

Fixed maturity securities:

                   

Corporate and other bonds

  $ 204         $ 2          $ (1)            $ 33        $        (23)      $ (16)          $ 18          $ (55)        $ 162             

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

    71           1            4               14          (10)          14              94             

Asset-backed:

                   

Residential mortgage-backed

    331           (21)           61               94          (174)        (72)            32            (62)          189             

Commercial mortgage-backed

    151           7            (6)              28          (60)        (29)            43            (51)          83             

Other asset-backed

    446           2            (6)              488          (111)        (117)              (47)          655              $ (1)          

 

 

Total asset-backed

    928           (12)           49               610          (345)        (218)            75            (160)          927                (1)          

 

 

Fixed maturities available-for-sale

    1,203           (9)           52               657          (378)        (234)            107            (215)          1,183                (1)          

Fixed maturities trading

    80           11                (1)              90                11           

 

 

Total fixed maturities

  $ 1,283         $ 2          $ 52             $ 657        $ (379)      $ (234)          $ 107          $ (215)        $ 1,273              $ 10           

 

 

Equity securities available-for-sale

  $ 11         $ 3          $ (6)            $ 16        $ (8)            $ 16             

Equity securities trading

    8           (1)               (6)              1              $ 1           

 

 

Total equity securities

  $ 19         $ 2          $ (6)            $ 16        $ (14)      $ -           $ -          $ -         $ 17              $ 1           

 

 

Life settlement contracts

  $ 88         $ 33                $ (39)              $ 82              $ 8           

Separate account business

    1                     $ (1)          -             

Derivative financial instruments, net

    (3)          1              $              -                2           

 

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                                                          Unrealized  
                                                          Gains  
                                                          (Losses)  
                                                           Recognized in   
          Net Realized Gains                                         Net Income  
                  (Losses) and Net Change                                             on Level  
          in Unrealized Gains                                         3 Assets and  
          (Losses)                       Transfers     Transfers           Liabilities  
    Balance,     Included in     Included in                       into     out of     Balance,     Held at  
2013   January 1     Net Income     OCI     Purchases     Sales     Settlements     Level 3     Level 3     December 31     December 31  

 

 
(In millions)                                                            

Fixed maturity securities:

                   

Corporate and other bonds

  $ 219        $ 3            $ 123        $        (97)      $ (44)          $ 51          $ (51)       $ 204             $ (2)          

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

    96          (2)         $ 4               122          (79)        (61)            18            (27)         71            

Asset-backed:

                   

Residential mortgage-backed

    413          4            (14)              116          (10)        (75)            4            (107)         331               (3)          

Commercial mortgage-backed

    129            11               107          (3)        (11)            21            (103)         151            

Other asset-backed

    368          5            (4)              314          (197)        (35)              (5)         446               (2)          

 

 

Total asset-backed

    910          9            (7)              537          (210)        (121)            25            (215)         928               (5)          

Redeemable preferred stock

    26          (1)                 (25)                -            

 

 

Fixed maturities available-for-sale

    1,251          9            (3)              782          (386)        (251)            94            (293)         1,203               (7)          

Fixed maturities trading

    89          (4)             19          (24)              80               (4)          

 

 

Total fixed maturities

  $ 1,340        $ 5          $ (3)            $ 801        $ (410)      $ (251)          $ 94          $ (293)       $ 1,283             $ (11)          

 

 

Equity securities available-for-sale

  $ 34        $ (27)         $ 3             $ 2              $ (1)       $ 11             $ (27)          

Equity securities trading

    7          (5)             6                  8               (5)          

 

 

Total equity securities

  $ 41        $ (32)         $ 3             $ 8        $      $ -           $ -          $ (1)       $ 19             $ (32)          

 

 

Short term investments

  $ 6              $ (6)            $ -            

Other invested assets

    1                (1)              -            

Life settlement contracts

    100        $ 13                $ (25)                88             $ (2)          

Separate account business

    2            $ 1          (2)              1            

Derivative financial instruments, net

    5          8          $ (9)              (2)                (6)                (3)              1           

Net realized and unrealized gains and losses are reported in Net income as follows:

 

Major Category of Assets and Liabilities      Consolidated Statements of Income Line Items

 

Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale Investment gains (losses)
Fixed maturity securities, trading Net investment income
Equity securities available-for-sale Investment gains (losses)
Equity securities, trading Net investment income
Other invested assets Investment gains (losses) and Net investment income
Derivative financial instruments held in a trading portfolio Net investment income
Derivative financial instruments, other Investment gains (losses) and Other revenues
Derivative financial instruments included in Assets and Liabilities of discontinued operations Discontinued operations, net
Life settlement contracts Other revenues

 

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Securities may be transferred in or out of levels within the fair value hierarchy based on the availability of observable market information and quoted prices used to determine the fair value of the security. The availability of observable market information and quoted prices varies based on market conditions and trading volume. There were $24 million of transfers from Level 2 to Level 1 and $1 million of transfers from Level 1 to Level 2 during the year ended December 31, 2014. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the year ended December 31, 2013. The Company’s policy is to recognize transfers between levels at the beginning of quarterly reporting periods.

Valuation Methodologies and Inputs

The following section describes the valuation methodologies and relevant inputs used to measure different financial instruments at fair value, including an indication of the level in the fair value hierarchy in which the instruments are generally classified.

Fixed Maturity Securities

Fixed maturity securities are valued using methodologies that model information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets, as well as discounted cash flow methodologies. Common inputs include: prices from recently executed transactions of similar securities, broker/dealer quotes, benchmark yields, spreads off benchmark yields, interest rates and U.S. Treasury or swap curves. Specifically for asset-backed securities, key inputs include prepayment and default projections based on past performance of the underlying collateral and current market data.

Level 1 securities include exchange traded bonds, highly liquid U.S. and foreign government bonds and redeemable preferred stock, valued using quoted market prices. Level 2 securities include most other fixed maturity securities as the significant inputs are observable in the marketplace. Securities are generally assigned to Level 3 in cases where broker/dealer quotes are significant inputs to the valuation and there is a lack of transparency as to whether these quotes are based on information that is observable in the marketplace. Level 3 securities also include private placement debt securities whose fair value is determined using internal models with inputs that are not market observable.

Equity Securities

Level 1 equity securities include publicly traded securities valued using quoted market prices. Level 2 securities are primarily non-redeemable preferred stocks and common stocks valued using pricing for similar securities, recently executed transactions, broker/dealer quotes and other pricing models utilizing market observable inputs. Level 3 securities are priced using internal models with inputs that are not market observable.

Derivative Financial Instruments

Exchange traded derivatives are valued using quoted market prices and are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Level 2 derivatives primarily include currency forwards valued using observable market forward rates. Over-the-counter derivatives, principally interest rate swaps, total return swaps, commodity swaps, equity warrants and options, are valued using inputs including broker/dealer quotes and are classified within Level 2 or Level 3 of the valuation hierarchy, depending on the amount of transparency as to whether these quotes are based on information that is observable in the marketplace.

Short Term Investments

Securities that are actively traded or have quoted prices are classified as Level 1. These securities include money market funds and treasury bills. Level 2 primarily includes commercial paper, for which all inputs are market observable. Fixed maturity securities purchased within one year of maturity are classified consistent with fixed maturity securities discussed above. Short term investments as presented in the tables above differ from the amounts presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets because certain short term investments, such as time deposits, are not measured at fair value.

 

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Other Invested Assets

Level 1 securities include exchange traded open-end funds valued using quoted market prices. Level 2 securities include overseas deposits which can be redeemed at net asset value in 90 days or less.

Life Settlement Contracts

The fair values of life settlement contracts are determined as the present value of the anticipated death benefits less anticipated premium payments based on contract terms that are distinct for each insured, as well as CNA’s own assumptions for mortality, premium expense, and the rate of return that a buyer would require on the contracts, as no comparable market pricing data is available.

Separate Account Business

Separate account business included fixed maturity securities, equities and short term investments. The valuation methodologies and inputs for these asset types have been described above.

Assets and Liabilities of Discontinued Operations

Assets and liabilities of discontinued operations relate to HighMount, as discussed in Notes 2 and 20. These balances represent short term investments and derivative assets and liabilities, which are valued using the methodologies and inputs for these asset and liability types described above.

Significant Unobservable Inputs

The tables below present quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs utilized by the Company in the fair value measurements of Level 3 assets. Valuations for assets and liabilities not presented in the table below are primarily based on broker/dealer quotes for which there is a lack of transparency as to inputs used to develop the valuations. The quantitative detail of unobservable inputs from these broker quotes is neither provided nor reasonably available to the Company.

 

December 31, 2014 Fair Value  

Valuation        

Techniques        

Unobservable

Inputs

Range

(Weighted

Average)

 

  (In millions)        

Assets

Fixed maturity securities

$ 101      Discounted cash flow Credit spread 2% – 13% (3%)

Equity securities

  16      Market approach Private offering price $12 – $4,391 per share
($600 per share)

Life settlement contracts

  82      Discounted cash flow Discount rate risk premium 9%
Mortality assumption 55% – 1,676% (163%)
December 31, 2013          

 

Assets

Fixed maturity securities

$ 142      Discounted cash flow Credit spread 2% – 20% (4%)

Equity securities

  10      Market approach Private offering price $360 – $4,268 per share
($1,148 per share)

Life settlement contracts

  88      Discounted cash flow Discount rate risk premium 9%
Mortality assumption 70% – 743% (192%)

 

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For fixed maturity securities, an increase to the credit spread assumptions would result in a lower fair value measurement. For equity securities, an increase in the private offering price would result in a higher fair value measurement. For life settlement contracts, an increase in the discount rate risk premium or decrease in the mortality assumption would result in a lower fair value measurement.

Financial Assets and Liabilities Not Measured at Fair Value

The carrying amount, estimated fair value and the level of the fair value hierarchy of the Company’s financial instrument assets and liabilities which are not measured at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets are listed in the tables below. The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of short term debt and long term debt exclude capital lease obligations. The carrying amounts reported on the Consolidated Balance Sheets for cash and short term investments not carried at fair value and certain other assets and liabilities approximate fair value due to the short term nature of these items.

 

  Carrying   Estimated Fair Value  
December 31, 2014 Amount       Level 1 Level 2    Level 3   Total      

 

 
(In millions)                  

Financial Assets:

Other invested assets, primarily mortgage loans

$ 588    $ 608     $ 608       

Financial Liabilities:

Short term debt

  334    $ 255      84       339       

Long term debt

  10,320       10,299      420       10,719       
December 31, 2013                  

 

 

Financial Assets:

Other invested assets, primarily mortgage loans

$ 508     $ 515      $ 515       

Financial Liabilities:

Premium deposits and annuity contracts

  57       58        58       

Short term debt

  818     $ 832        20        852       

Long term debt

  9,515       9,907        182        10,089       

Long term debt included in discontinued operations

  500       500        500       

The following methods and assumptions were used in estimating the fair value of these financial assets and liabilities.

The fair values of mortgage loans, included in Other invested assets, were based on the present value of the expected future cash flows discounted at the current interest rate for similar financial instruments, adjusted for specific loan risk.

Premium deposits and annuity contracts were valued based on cash surrender values or estimated fair values of policyholder liabilities, net of amounts ceded related to sold business.

Fair value of debt was based on observable market prices when available. When observable market prices were not available, the fair value of debt was based on observable market prices of comparable instruments adjusted for differences between the observed instruments and the instruments being valued or is estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, based on current incremental borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements.

 

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Note 5.  Derivative Financial Instruments

The Company uses derivatives in the normal course of business, primarily in an attempt to reduce its exposure to market risk (principally interest rate risk, credit risk, equity price risk, commodity price risk and foreign currency risk) stemming from various assets and liabilities. The Company’s principal objective under such strategies is to achieve the desired reduction in economic risk, even if the position does not receive hedge accounting treatment.

The Company enters into interest rate swaps, futures and commitments to purchase securities to manage interest rate risk. Credit derivatives such as credit default swaps are entered into to modify the credit risk inherent in certain investments. Forward contracts, futures, swaps and options are used primarily to manage foreign currency and commodity price risk.

In addition to the derivatives used for risk management purposes described above, the Company may also use derivatives for purposes of income enhancement. Income enhancement transactions include but are not limited to interest rate swaps, call options, put options, credit default swaps, index futures and foreign currency forwards. See Note 4 for information regarding the fair value of derivative instruments.

A summary of the aggregate contractual or notional amounts and gross estimated fair values related to derivative financial instruments follows. The contractual or notional amounts for derivatives are used to calculate the exchange of contractual payments under the agreements and may not be representative of the potential for gain or loss on these instruments.

 

December 31 2014   2013  

 

 
  Contractual/           Contractual/      
  Notional   Estimated Fair Value   Notional   Estimated Fair Value  
  Amount   Asset   (Liability)   Amount   Asset   (Liability)  

 

 
(In millions)                        

With hedge designation:

Foreign exchange:

Currency forwards – short

  $    70            $    (5)           $  114        $    2        $    (1)         

Without hedge designation:

Equity markets:

Options – purchased

  544            $    24        1,561        41     

      – written

  292            (21)           729        (23)         

Equity swaps and warrants – long

  10            2        17        9     

Interest rate risk:

Credit default swaps

– purchased protection

  50        (3)         

– sold protection

  25     

Foreign exchange:

Currency forwards – long

  109            (3)           55     

   – short

  88            2        113     

Currency options – long

  151            7     

Embedded derivative on funds withheld liability

  184            (3)        

Discontinued operations:

Interest rate risk:

Interest rate swaps

  300        (4)         

Commodities:

Forwards – short

  180        4        (4)         

 

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Gross estimated fair values of derivative positions are currently presented in Equity securities, Receivables, Payable to brokers and Assets and Liabilities of discontinued operations on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. There would be no significant difference in the balance included in such accounts if the estimated fair values were presented net for the periods ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.

In connection with the sale of HighMount, as discussed in Note 2, cash flow hedge accounting treatment was discontinued for all of HighMount’s commodity and interest rate swaps in 2014 and a loss of $4 million after tax was reclassified from AOCI into Discontinued operations, net for those hedges where the original forecasted transactions are no longer probable of occurring. In addition, mark-to-market losses of $2 million after tax were recognized on these derivatives in 2014.

For derivative financial instruments without hedge designation, changes in the fair value of derivatives not held in a trading portfolio are reported in Investment gains (losses) and changes in the fair value of derivatives held for trading purposes are reported in Net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Income. Losses of $1 million, $9 million and $5 million were recorded in Investment gains (losses) for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. Gains of $12 million and losses of $26 million and $19 million were included in Net investment income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

The Company’s derivative financial instruments with cash flow hedge designation hedge variable price risk associated with the purchase and sale of natural gas and exposure to foreign currency losses on future foreign currency expenditures. Losses of $3 million, $10 million and $1 million were recognized in OCI related to these cash flow hedges for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. Gains of $1 million and losses of $8 million and $6 million were reclassified from AOCI into income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. As of December 31, 2014, the estimated amount of net unrealized losses associated with these cash flow hedges that will be reclassified from AOCI into earnings during the next twelve months was $2 million. For each of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the net amounts recognized due to ineffectiveness were less than $1 million.

Note 6.  Receivables

 

December 31 2014       2013        

 

(In millions)        

Reinsurance (Note 16)

$       4,742    $      6,088     

Insurance

  1,997    2,063     

Receivable from brokers

  84    234     

Accrued investment income

  412    448     

Federal income taxes

  27    34     

Other, primarily customer accounts

  625    800     

 

Total

  7,887    9,667     

Less:  allowance for doubtful accounts on reinsurance receivables

  48    71     

           allowance for other doubtful accounts

  69    258     

 

Receivables

$       7,770    $      9,338     

 

Note 7.  Property, Plant and Equipment

 

December 31 2014       2013        

 

(In millions)        

Pipeline equipment (net of accumulated DD&A of $1,620 and $1,360)

$       7,491    $      7,062     

Offshore drilling equipment (net of accumulated DD&A of $4,159 and $3,727)

  6,459    3,750     

Other (net of accumulated DD&A of $730 and $778)

  1,083    785     

Construction in process

  578    1,927     

 

Property, plant and equipment, net

$     15,611    $    13,524     

 

 

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DD&A expense and capital expenditures are as follows:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014   2013     2012                   

 

 
  DD&A   Capital
Expend.
  DD&A   Capital
Expend.
  DD&A   Capital    
Expend.    
 

 

 
(In millions)                        

CNA Financial

$ 69     $ 72     $ 72     $ 90     $ 71     $ 98       

Diamond Offshore

  457       2,050       389       987       394       721       

Boardwalk Pipeline

  292       378       275       305       256       247       

Loews Hotels

  37       289       32       369       30       30       

Corporate and other

       24                      10       

 

 

Total

$ 861     $ 2,813     $ 774     $ 1,755     $ 758     $ 1,106       

 

 

Capitalized interest related to the construction and upgrade of qualifying assets amounted to approximately $80 million, $92 million and $43 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Offshore Drilling Equipment

Purchase of Assets

In 2014, Diamond Offshore took delivery of three ultra-deepwater drillships and two deepwater floaters. The aggregate net book value of these newly constructed rigs was $2.7 billion at December 31, 2014, of which $1.3 billion was reported in Construction in process at December 31, 2013. At December 31, 2014, Construction in process included $439 million related to two rigs still under construction.

Sale of Assets

In 2014, Diamond Offshore sold a jack-up rig for $17 million, resulting in a gain of $9 million ($3 million after tax and noncontrolling interests). In 2012, Diamond Offshore sold six jack-up rigs for total proceeds of $132 million, resulting in a gain of approximately $76 million ($32 million after tax and noncontrolling interests). These gains were recorded in Other revenues on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Asset Impairment

In the third quarter of 2014, Diamond Offshore determined it would retire and scrap six rigs, including a rig upon completion of its contract term in 2015. Demand for offshore drilling rigs continues to decline and is exacerbated by an oversupply of rigs including newbuilds scheduled for delivery in 2015. As a result, Diamond Offshore performed an impairment analysis to determine whether the carrying amount of these assets was recoverable. Based on this analysis, an impairment loss was recognized aggregating $109 million ($55 million after tax and noncontrolling interests) for the year ended December 31, 2014. The fair value was determined through discussions and a quote from a rig broker, and for the rig currently under contract using an internally developed income approach, which are Level 3 inputs of the fair value hierarchy. In the fourth quarter of 2014, two of the rigs were scrapped and at December 31, 2014, the carrying value of the remaining rigs amounted to $9 million. In 2012, Diamond Offshore recorded an impairment charge of $62 million ($19 million after tax and noncontrolling interests) related to three mid-water rigs. These impairment losses were recorded within Other operating expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

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Note 8.  Goodwill

 

  Total     CNA
Financial
  Diamond
Offshore
  Boardwalk
Pipeline
  Loews     
Hotels     
 

 

 
(In millions)                    

Balance, December 31, 2012

$ 412     $ 118        $ 20        $ 271       $ 3             

Impairments

  (52)      (52)     

Other adjustments

  (3)      1          (4)     

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2013

  357       119          20          215         3             

Additions

  22       22      

Dispositions

  (3)      (3)            

Other adjustments

  (2)      (2)     

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2014

$       374     $ 117        $ 20        $ 237       $     -             

 

 

Based upon the completion of its annual goodwill impairment testing in 2013, Boardwalk Pipeline determined in the first step of the two-step quantitative goodwill impairment analysis that the carrying value of its reporting unit which included goodwill associated with the Petal Gas Storage, LLC acquisition exceeded its fair value. The fair value of the reporting unit declined from the amount determined in 2012 primarily due to the recent narrowing of time period price spreads and reduced volatility which negatively affects the value of Boardwalk Pipeline’s storage and PAL services and the cumulative effect of reduced basis spreads on the value of Boardwalk Pipeline’s transportation services. The fair value measurement of the reporting unit was derived based on judgments and assumptions which Boardwalk Pipeline believes market participants would use in assessing the fair value of the reporting unit. These judgments and assumptions which utilized significant unobservable inputs, representing a Level 3 fair value measurement, included the valuation premise, use of a discounted cash flow model to estimate fair value and inputs to the valuation model. The inputs included, but were not limited to, forecasted operating results and the long term natural gas outlook for growth in demand. Due to the results of the first step, Boardwalk Pipeline performed the second step to compare the fair value of the reporting unit to the fair value of the reporting unit’s assets and liabilities. As a result, Boardwalk Pipeline recognized a goodwill impairment charge of $52 million ($16 million after tax and noncontrolling interests) for the year ended December 31, 2013, representing the carrying value of the goodwill for the reporting unit. This impairment charge was recorded within Other operating expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Income. See Note 20 for discussion of HighMount’s 2013 goodwill impairment charge recorded in discontinued operations.

Note 9.  Claim and Claim Adjustment Expense Reserves

CNA’s property and casualty insurance claim and claim adjustment expense reserves represent the estimated amounts necessary to resolve all outstanding claims, including claims that are incurred but not reported (“IBNR”) as of the reporting date. CNA’s reserve projections are based primarily on detailed analysis of the facts in each case, CNA’s experience with similar cases and various historical development patterns. Consideration is given to such historical patterns as field reserving trends and claims settlement practices, loss payments, pending levels of unpaid claims and product mix, as well as court decisions, economic conditions including inflation and public attitudes. All of these factors can affect the estimation of claim and claim adjustment expense reserves.

Establishing claim and claim adjustment expense reserves, including claim and claim adjustment expense reserves for catastrophic events that have occurred, is an estimation process. Many factors can ultimately affect the final settlement of a claim and, therefore, the necessary reserve. Changes in the law, results of litigation, medical costs, the cost of repair materials and labor rates can all affect ultimate claim costs. In addition, time can be a critical part of reserving determinations since the longer the span between the incidence of a loss and the payment or settlement of the claim, the more variable the ultimate settlement amount can be. Accordingly, short-tail claims, such as property damage claims, tend to be more reasonably estimable than long-tail claims, such as workers’ compensation, general liability and professional liability claims. Adjustments to prior year reserve estimates, if necessary, are reflected in the results of operations in the period that the need for such adjustments is determined. There can be no assurance that CNA’s ultimate cost for insurance losses will not exceed current estimates.

 

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Catastrophes are an inherent risk of the property and casualty insurance business and have contributed to material period-to-period fluctuations in CNA’s results of operations and/or equity. CNA reported catastrophe losses, net of reinsurance, of $156 million, $169 million and $391 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. Catastrophe losses in 2012 included Storm Sandy.

The table below provides a reconciliation between beginning and ending claim and claim adjustment expense reserves, including claim and claim adjustment expense reserves of the life company as of and for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

 

Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012  

 

 
(In millions)            

Reserves, beginning of year:

Gross

$ 24,089         $ 24,763         $ 24,303        

Ceded

  4,972           5,126           5,020        

 

 

Net reserves, beginning of year

  19,117           19,637           19,283        

 

 
Change in net reserves due to acquisition (disposition) of subsidiaries   (13)          291        

 

 

Net incurred claim and claim adjustment expenses:

Provision for insured events of current year

  5,043           5,114           5,273        

Decrease in provision for insured events of prior years

  (36)          (115)          (182)       

Amortization of discount

  161           154           145        

 

 

Total net incurred (a)

  5,168           5,153           5,236        

 

 

Net payments attributable to:

Current year events

  (945)          (981)          (988)       

Prior year events

  (4,355)          (4,588)          (4,280)       

 

 

Total net payments

  (5,300)          (5,569)          (5,268)       

 

 

Foreign currency translation adjustment and other

  (45)          (104)          95        

 

 

Net reserves, end of year

  18,927           19,117           19,637        

Ceded reserves, end of year

  4,344           4,972           5,126        

 

 

Gross reserves, end of year

$     23,271         $     24,089         $     24,763        

 

 

 

(a)

Total net incurred above does not agree to Insurance claims and policyholders’ benefits as reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Income due to amounts related to retroactive reinsurance deferred gain accounting, uncollectible reinsurance and loss deductible receivables and benefit expenses related to future policy benefits and policyholders’ funds, which are not reflected in the table above.

The changes in provision for insured events of prior years (net prior year claim and claim adjustment expense reserve development, including unallocated claim and claim adjustment expense) were as follows:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012          

 

 
(In millions)            

Property and casualty reserve development

$          (39)     $       (115)     $         (180)       

Life reserve development in life company

3        (2)       

 

 

Total

$          (36)     $       (115)     $         (182)       

 

 

 

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The following tables summarize the gross and net carried reserves:

 

December 31, 2014 Specialty   Commercial   International   Other
Non-Core
  Total      

 

 
(In millions)                    

Gross Case Reserves

$ 2,136      $ 5,298            $ 752        $ 4,070    $ 12,256     

Gross IBNR Reserves

  4,093      4,216          689          2,017      11,015     

 

 

Total Gross Carried Claim and Claim Adjustment Expense Reserves

$ 6,229      $ 9,514            $ 1,441        $ 6,087    $ 23,271     

 

 

Net Case Reserves

$ 1,929      $ 4,947            $ 598        $ 2,716    $ 10,190     

Net IBNR Reserves

  3,726      3,906          663          442      8,737     

 

 

Total Net Carried Claim and Claim Adjustment Expense Reserves

$ 5,655      $ 8,853            $ 1,261        $ 3,158    $ 18,927     

 

 

December 31, 2013

 

 

Gross Case Reserves

$ 2,001      $ 5,570            $ 803        $ 3,888    $ 12,262     

Gross IBNR Reserves

  4,057      4,521          772          2,477      11,827     

 

 

Total Gross Carried Claim and Claim Adjustment Expense Reserves

$ 6,058      $ 10,091            $ 1,575        $ 6,365    $ 24,089     

 

 

Net Case Reserves

$ 1,793      $ 5,119            $ 629        $ 2,635    $ 10,176     

Net IBNR Reserves

  3,789      3,992          705          455      8,941     

 

 

Total Net Carried Claim and Claim Adjustment Expense Reserves

$ 5,582      $ 9,111            $ 1,334        $ 3,090    $ 19,117     

 

 

Net Prior Year Development

Changes in estimates of claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserves and premium accruals, net of reinsurance, for prior years are defined as net prior year development. These changes can be favorable or unfavorable. The following tables and discussion include the net prior year development recorded for Specialty, Commercial, International and Other Non-Core segments for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

 

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Favorable net prior year development of $14 million, $9 million and $11 million was recorded in Life & Group Non-Core for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

 

Year Ended December 31, 2014 Specialty   Commercial   International   Other   Total  

 

 
(In millions)                    

Pretax (favorable) unfavorable net prior year claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserve development

$ (136)      $ 176         $ (59)        $        (2)        $        (21)   

Pretax (favorable) unfavorable premium development

  (13)      (20)        2         (1)        (32)   

 

 

Total pretax (favorable) unfavorable net prior year development

$ (149)      $ 156         $ (57)        $        (3)        $        (53)   

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2013

 

 

Pretax (favorable) unfavorable net prior year claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserve development

$ (196)      $ 122         $ (38)        $        (6)        $        (118)   

Pretax (favorable) unfavorable premium development

  (14)      (8)        (21)        1         (42)   

 

 

Total pretax (favorable) unfavorable net prior year development

$ (210)      $ 114         $ (59)        $        (5)        $        (160)   

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2012

 

 

Pretax (favorable) unfavorable net prior year claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserve development

$ (93)      $ (25)       $ (74)        $        (13)        $        (205)   

Pretax (favorable) unfavorable premium development

  (14)      (36)       3         1         (46)   

 

 

Total pretax (favorable) unfavorable net prior year development

$ (107)      $ (61)       $ (71)        $        (12)        $        (251)   

 

 

Premium development can occur in the property and casualty business when there is a change in exposure on auditable policies or when premium accruals differ from processed premium. Audits on policies usually occur in a period after the expiration date of the policy.

For the year ended December 31, 2013, favorable premium development for International is primarily due to a commutation recorded at Hardy.

 

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Specialty

The following table and discussion provide further detail of the net prior year claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserve development (“development”) recorded for the Specialty segment:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014      2013       2012        

 

 
(In millions)            

Medical professional liability

$ 39           $ (27)          $       (34)         

Other professional liability and management liability

  (87)            (73)            19          

Surety

  (82)            (74)            (63)         

Warranty

  (2)            (3)            (5)         

Other

  (4)            (19)            (10)         

 

 

Total pretax (favorable) unfavorable net prior year claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserve development

$     (136)          $      (196)          $ (93)         

 

 

2014

Unfavorable development for medical professional liability was primarily related to increased frequency of large medical products liability class action lawsuits in accident years 2012 and prior and increased frequency of other large medical professional liability losses in accident years 2011 through 2013.

Overall, favorable development for other professional liability and management liability was related to better than expected severity in accident years 2008 through 2011, including favorable outcomes on individual large claims. Additional favorable development related to lower than expected frequency in accident years 2011 through 2013. Unfavorable development was recorded due to higher than expected severity in financial institution and professional service coverages in accident years 2009 through 2011.

Favorable development for surety coverages was primarily due to better than expected large loss emergence in accident years 2012 and prior.

2013

Overall, favorable development for medical professional liability reflects favorable experience in accident years 2009 and prior. Unfavorable development was recorded for accident years 2010 and 2011 due to higher than expected large loss activity.

Overall, favorable development for other professional liability and management liability was related to better than expected loss emergence in accident years 2010 and prior. Unfavorable development was recorded in accident year 2011 related to an increase in severity in management liability.

Favorable development for surety coverages was primarily due to better than expected large loss emergence in accident years 2011 and prior.

Other includes standard property and casualty coverages provided to Specialty customers. Favorable development for other coverages was primarily due to better than expected loss emergence in property coverages primarily in accident years 2010 and subsequent.

2012

Favorable development for medical professional liability was primarily due to better than expected loss emergence in accident years 2008 and prior.

Overall, unfavorable development for other professional liability and management liability was primarily due to increased frequency and severity in CNA’s lawyer coverages in accident years 2008 through 2011, a large claim settlement in 2005 related to lawyers and increased frequency of large claims in public company directors and

 

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officers coverages related to the financial crisis in accident year 2011. Favorable development was recorded primarily due to better than expected loss emergence in accident years 2003 through 2009.

Favorable development for surety coverages was primarily due to better than expected loss emergence in accident years 2010 and prior.

Overall, favorable development for other coverages was primarily due to favorable loss emergence in property and workers’ compensation coverages in accident years 2005 and subsequent. Unfavorable development was recorded in accident year 2009 primarily due to an unfavorable outcome on an individual general liability claim.

Commercial

The following table and discussion provide further detail of the development recorded for the Commercial segment:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014       2013      2012    

 

 
(In millions)            

Commercial auto

$ 31           $ 18           $ 25          

General liability

  45             64             (66)         

Workers’ compensation

  139             91             15          

Property and other

  (39)            (51)            1          

 

 

Total pretax (favorable) unfavorable net prior year claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserve development

$      176           $       122           $       (25)         

 

 

2014

Unfavorable development for commercial auto was primarily related to higher than expected frequency in accident years 2012 and 2013 and higher than expected severity for liability coverages in accident years 2010 through 2013. Favorable development was recorded related to fewer large claims than expected in accident years 2008 and 2009.

Overall, unfavorable development for general liability was primarily related to higher than expected severity in accident years 2010 through 2013. Favorable development was recorded primarily related to lower than expected frequency of large losses in accident years 2005 through 2009.

Overall, unfavorable development for workers’ compensation was primarily due to increased medical severity in accident years 2010 and prior, higher than expected severity related to Defense Base Act (“DBA”) contractors in accident years 2010 through 2013 and the recognition of losses related to favorable premium development in accident year 2013. Favorable development of $26 million was recorded in accident years 1996 and prior related to the commutation of a workers’ compensation reinsurance pool.

Favorable development for property and other first party coverages was recorded in accident years 2013 and prior, primarily related to fewer claims than expected and favorable individual claim settlements.

2013

Unfavorable development for commercial auto coverages was primarily due to higher than expected frequency in accident years 2011 and 2012 and large loss emergence in accident years 2009 and 2010.

Unfavorable development for general liability coverages was primarily related to increased incurred loss severity in accident years 2010 through 2012.

Unfavorable development for workers’ compensation includes CNA’s response to legislation enacted during 2013 related to the New York Fund for Reopened Cases. The law change necessitated an increase in reserves as re-opened workers’ compensation claims can no longer be turned over to the state for handling and payment after December

 

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31, 2013. Additional unfavorable development was recorded in accident year 2012 related to increased frequency and severity on claims related to DBA contractors and in accident year 2010 due to higher than expected large losses and increased severity in the state of California.

Favorable development for property and other coverages was primarily related to favorable outcomes on litigated catastrophe claims in accident years 2005 and 2010 as well as favorable loss emergence in non-catastrophe losses in accident years 2010 through 2012.

2012

Unfavorable development for commercial auto coverages was primarily due to higher than expected loss emergence in accident years 2007 and subsequent and higher than expected frequency in accident year 2011.

Overall, favorable development for general liability coverages was primarily due to better than expected loss emergence in accident years 2006 and subsequent related to umbrella business and 2003 and prior related to large account business. Unfavorable development was recorded in accident years 2009 through 2011 related to several large losses.

Overall, unfavorable development for workers’ compensation was primarily due to increased medical severity in accident years 2010 and 2011 and the recognition of losses related to favorable premium development in accident year 2011. Favorable development was recorded in accident years 2001 and prior reflecting favorable experience.

International

The following table and discussion provide further detail of the development recorded for the International segment:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014       2013      2012     

 

 
(In millions)            

Medical professional liability

$ (7)          $ (7)          $ 1          

Other professional liability

  (26)            (30)            (41)         

Liability

  (13)            (8)            (2)         

Property & marine

  (14)            13             (30)         

Other

  (9)            (17)            (2)         

Commutations

  10             11          

 

 

Total pretax (favorable) unfavorable net prior year claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserve development

$     (59)          $     (38)          $     (74)         

 

 

2014

Overall, favorable development for other professional liability was primarily related to better than expected severity in accident years 2012 and prior. Unfavorable development was recorded in accident year 2008 due to financial crisis claims.

Favorable development for liability was primarily related to better than expected frequency and severity in accident years 2009 and subsequent.

Favorable development for property and marine coverages primarily related to better than expected frequency of large claims in accident years 2012 and prior.

Favorable development for other coverages was a result of better than expected frequency in Hardy, primarily in financial institution coverages.

 

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Reinsurance commutations in the first quarter of 2014 reduced ceded losses from prior years. Overall the commutations increased net operating income because of the release of the related allowance for uncollectible reinsurance.

2013

Overall, favorable development for other professional liability was primarily related to better than expected severity in accident years 2011 and prior. Unfavorable development was recorded related to higher than expected severity in accident year 2012.

Overall, unfavorable development for property and marine coverages was primarily due to 2011 catastrophe events, including the Thailand floods and the New Zealand Lyttelton earthquake, and one large non-catastrophe claim. Favorable development was recorded related to better than expected severity in accident years 2008 through 2011.

Favorable development for other coverages was largely a result of better than expected severity in Hardy in accident year 2012.

The commutation of a third-party capital provider’s 15% participation in the 2012 year of account resulted in recognition of the 15% share of year of account premiums, losses and expenses.

2012

Favorable development for other professional liability was primarily related to better than expected severity in accident years 2007 and prior.

Favorable development for property and marine coverages related to better than expected severity in accident years 2011 and prior.

A&EP Reserves

In 2010, Continental Casualty Company (“CCC”) together with several of CNA’s insurance subsidiaries completed a transaction with National Indemnity Company (“NICO”), a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc., under which substantially all of CNA’s legacy A&EP liabilities were ceded to NICO (“Loss Portfolio Transfer” or “LPT”). Under the terms of the NICO transaction, CNA ceded approximately $1.6 billion of net A&EP claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserves to NICO under a retroactive reinsurance agreement with an aggregate limit of $4.0 billion. The $1.6 billion of claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserves ceded to NICO was net of $1.2 billion of ceded claim and allocated claim adjustment expense reserves under existing third party reinsurance contracts. The NICO aggregate reinsurance limit also covers credit risk on the existing third party reinsurance related to these liabilities. CNA paid NICO a reinsurance premium of $2.0 billion and transferred to NICO billed third party reinsurance receivables related to A&EP claims with a net book value of $215 million, resulting in total consideration of $2.2 billion.

The following table displays the impact of the Loss Portfolio Transfer on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

Year Ended December 31 2014          2013       2012     

 

 
(In millions)            

Net A&EP adverse development before consideration of LPT

$ -           $ 363           $ 261          

Provision for uncollectible third party reinsurance on A&EP

  140          

 

 

Additional amounts ceded under LPT

  -             503             261          

Retroactive reinsurance benefit recognized

  (13)              (314)              (261)         

 

 

Pretax impact of unrecognized deferred retroactive reinsurance benefit

$     (13)          $ 189           $ -          

 

 

 

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During 2013 and 2012, unfavorable development was recorded for accident years 2000 and prior related to A&EP claims due to an increase in ultimate claim severity and higher than anticipated claim reporting, as well as increased defense costs. Additionally, in 2013 CNA recognized a provision for uncollectible third party reinsurance which increased the expected recovery from NICO. The fourth quarter 2014 A&EP reserve review was not completed. Additional information and analysis on inuring third party reinsurance recoveries are needed to finalize the review. CNA expects to complete the review in the first half of 2015.

In the fourth quarter of 2013, the cumulative amounts ceded under the Loss Portfolio Transfer of $2.5 billion exceeded the $2.2 billion consideration paid, resulting in a $189 million deferred retroactive reinsurance gain in Insurance claims and policyholders’ benefits on the Consolidated Statements of Income. This deferred benefit is recognized in earnings in proportion to actual recoveries under the Loss Portfolio Transfer. Over the life of the contract, there is no economic impact as long as any additional losses are within the limit under the contract. In 2014, $13 million of the deferred retroactive reinsurance benefit was recognized and the remaining unrecognized benefit at December 31, 2014 was $176 million.

NICO established a collateral trust account as security for its obligations to CNA. The fair value of the collateral trust account at December 31, 2014 was $3.4 billion. In addition, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. guaranteed the payment obligations of NICO up to the full aggregate reinsurance limit as well as certain of NICO’s performance obligations under the trust agreement. NICO is responsible for claims handling and billing and collection from third party reinsurers related to CNA’s A&EP claims.

Note 10. Leases

Leases cover office facilities, machinery and computer equipment. The Company’s hotels in some instances are constructed on leased land. Rent expense amounted to $94 million, $83 million and $86 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. The table below presents the future minimum lease payments to be made under non-cancelable operating leases along with lease and sublease minimum receipts to be received on owned and leased properties.

 

       Future Minimum Lease       
 

 

 

 
Year Ended December 31     Payments     Receipts         

 

 
(In millions)        

2015

     $ 59            $ 5              

2016

  57              4              

2017

  52              4              

2018

  45              3              

2019

  41              2              

Thereafter

  238              7              

 

 

Total

     $     492            $     25              

 

 

Note 11. Income Taxes

The Company and its eligible subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. The Company has entered into a separate tax allocation agreement with CNA, a majority-owned subsidiary in which its ownership exceeds 80%. The agreement provides that the Company will: (i) pay to CNA the amount, if any, by which the Company’s consolidated federal income tax is reduced by virtue of inclusion of CNA in the Company’s return or (ii) be paid by CNA an amount, if any, equal to the federal income tax that would have been payable by CNA if it had filed a separate consolidated return. The agreement may be canceled by either of the parties upon thirty days written notice.

For 2012 through 2014, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) has accepted the Company into the Compliance Assurance Process (“CAP”), which is a voluntary program for large corporations. Under CAP, the IRS conducts a real-time audit and works contemporaneously with the Company to resolve any issues prior to the filing of the tax return. The Company believes this approach should reduce tax-related uncertainties, if any. Although the outcome of tax audits is always uncertain, the Company believes that any adjustments resulting from audits will not have a material impact on its results of operations, financial position and cash flows. The Company and/or its subsidiaries also file

 

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income tax returns in various state, local and foreign jurisdictions. These returns, with few exceptions, are no longer subject to examination by the various taxing authorities before 2010.

Diamond Offshore, which is not included in the Company’s consolidated federal income tax return, files income tax returns in the U.S. federal, various state and foreign jurisdictions. Tax years that remain subject to examination by the various other jurisdictions include years 2008 to 2014.

The current and deferred components of income tax expense (benefit) are as follows:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014     2013     2012    

 

 
(In millions)            

Income tax expense (benefit):

Federal:

Current

$ 370           $ 705           $ 180          

Deferred

  (23)            (232)            199          

State and city:

Current

  12             19             19          

Deferred

  6             1             5          

Foreign

  92             163             110          

 

 

Total

$      457           $      656           $      513          

 

 

The components of U.S. and foreign income before income tax and a reconciliation between the federal income tax expense at statutory rates and the actual income tax expense is as follows:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014     2013     2012    

 

 
(In millions)            

Income before income tax:

U.S.

$ 1,499           $ 1,945           $ 1,534          

Foreign

  311             332             488          

 

 

Total

$   1,810           $   2,277           $   2,022          

 

 

Income tax expense at statutory rate

$ 633           $ 797           $ 708          

Increase (decrease) in income tax expense resulting from:

Exempt investment income

  (121)            (99)            (86)         

Foreign related tax differential

  (48)            (117)            (152)         

Amortization of deferred charges associated with intercompany rig sales to other tax jurisdictions

  44             31             31          

Taxes related to domestic affiliate

  14             19             25          

Partnership earnings not subject to taxes

  (39)            (38)            (43)         

Unrecognized tax benefit (expense)

  (42)            66             6          

Other (a)

  16             (3)            24          

 

 

Income tax expense

$ 457           $ 656           $ 513          

 

 

 

(a)

Includes state and local taxes, retroactive tax law changes, adjustments to prior year estimates and other non-deductible expenses.

Provision has been made for the expected U.S. federal income tax liabilities applicable to undistributed earnings of subsidiaries, except for certain subsidiaries for which the Company intends to invest the undistributed earnings indefinitely to finance foreign activities, or recover such undistributed earnings tax-free. The determination of the amount of the unrecognized deferred tax liability on approximately $2.4 billion of undistributed earnings related to foreign subsidiaries is not practicable.

 

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A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding tax carryforwards and interest and penalties, is as follows:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014         2013         2012        

 

 
(In millions)            

Balance at January 1

$ 91           $ 67           $ 63          

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

  6             2             4          

Additions for tax positions related to a prior year

  31             5          

Reductions for tax positions related to a prior year

  (35)            (7)            (5)         

Lapse of statute of limitations

  (5)            (2)         

 

 

Balance at December 31

$           57           $           91           $           67          

 

 

At December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, $51 million, $76 million and $48 million of unrecognized tax benefits related to Diamond Offshore would affect the effective tax rate if recognized.

The Company recognizes interest accrued related to: (i) unrecognized tax benefits in Interest expense and (ii) tax refund claims in Other revenues on the Consolidated Statements of Income. The Company recognizes penalties in Income tax expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income. Interest amounts recorded by the Company were insignificant for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. The Company recorded income tax benefit of $22 million and $1 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2012 and income tax expense of $38 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 related to penalties.

During 2013, Diamond Offshore received notification from the Egyptian tax authorities proposing a $1.2 billion increase in taxable income for the years 2006 to 2008. In December of 2013, Diamond Offshore accrued an additional $57 million of expense for uncertain tax positions in Egypt for all open years. During the first quarter of 2014, Diamond Offshore settled certain disputes for the years 2006 through 2008 with the Egyptian tax authorities, resulting in a net reduction to income tax expense of $17 million.

During the second quarter of 2014, the Appeals Committee in Egypt issued a decision regarding one remaining open item for the years 2006 to 2008. Diamond Offshore has filed an objection with the Egyptian courts and continues to dispute the matter, believing that its position will, more likely than not, be sustained. However, if Diamond Offshore’s position is not sustained, tax expense and related penalties would increase by approximately $50 million related to this issue for the 2006 through 2008 tax years as of December 31, 2014.

In July of 2014, the United Kingdom Finance Act (“Finance Act”) was enacted, with an effective date retroactive to April 1, 2014. Certain provisions of the Finance Act will limit the amount of tax deductions available with respect to rigs operating in the United Kingdom (“U.K.”) under bareboat charter arrangements, which has caused Diamond Offshore’s tax expense for the full year of 2014 to increase by approximately $22 million.

During the third quarter of 2014, Diamond Offshore reversed $36 million of reserves for uncertain tax positions, including $6 million for interest and $11 million for penalties, related to a favorable court decision in Brazil resulting in the closure of the 2004 and 2005 tax years, approval from Malaysian tax authorities for the settlement of tax liabilities and penalties for the years 2003 through 2008 and the expiration of the statute of limitations in Mexico for the 2008 tax year.

 

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The following table summarizes deferred tax assets and liabilities:

 

December 31 2014     2013      

 

 
(In millions)        

Deferred tax assets:

Insurance reserves:

Property and casualty claim and claim adjustment expense reserves

$ 265         $ 289          

Unearned premium reserves

  187           178          

Receivables

  37           53          

Employee benefits

  432           312          

Life settlement contracts

  46           46          

Deferred retroactive reinsurance benefit

  61           66          

Net operating loss carryforwards

  321           42          

Tax credit carryforwards

  93           27          

Basis differential in investment in subsidiary

  21           23          

Discontinued operations

  518          

Other

  161           200          

 

 

Deferred tax assets

  1,624           1,754          

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities:

Deferred acquisition costs

  (226)          (232)         

Net unrealized gains

  (469)          (361)         

Property, plant and equipment

  (1,132)          (1,076)         

Basis differential in investment in subsidiary

  (472)          (564)         

Other liabilities

  (204)          (198)         

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities

      (2,503)              (2,431)         

 

 

Net deferred tax liability (a)

$ (879)        $ (677)         

 

 

 

(a)

Includes $14 million and $39 million of deferred tax assets reflected in Other assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2014 and 2013.

Federal net operating loss carryforwards of $281 million expire in 2034 and $28 million of net operating loss carryforwards in foreign tax jurisdictions can be carried forward indefinitely. Federal tax credit carryforwards of $47 million have indefinite lives and $46 million of foreign tax credit carryforwards expire in 2024.

Although realization of deferred tax assets is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that the recognized deferred tax assets will be realized through recoupment of ordinary and capital taxes paid in prior carryback years and through future earnings, reversal of existing temporary differences and available tax planning strategies.

The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 was signed into law on January 2, 2013. The act extended, through 2013, several expired or expiring temporary business provisions, commonly referred to as “extenders,” which were retroactively extended to the beginning of 2012. As required by GAAP, the effects of new legislation are recognized when signed into law. The Company reduced 2013 tax expense by $28 million as a result of recognizing the 2012 effect of the extenders.

 

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Note 12.  Debt

 

December 31 2014    2013   

 

 
(In millions)        

Loews Corporation (Parent Company):

Senior:

5.3% notes due 2016 (effective interest rate of 5.4%) (authorized, $400)

$ 400          $ 400         

2.6% notes due 2023 (effective interest rate of 2.8%) (authorized, $500)

  500            500         

6.0% notes due 2035 (effective interest rate of 6.2%) (authorized, $300)

  300            300         

4.1% notes due 2043 (effective interest rate of 4.3%) (authorized, $500)

  500            500         

CNA Financial:

Senior:

5.9% notes due 2014 (effective interest rate of 6.0%) (authorized, $549)

  549         

6.5% notes due 2016 (effective interest rate of 6.6%) (authorized, $350)

  350            350         

7.0% notes due 2018 (effective interest rate of 7.1%) (authorized, $150)

  150            150         

7.4% notes due 2019 (effective interest rate of 7.5%) (authorized, $350)

  350            350         

5.9% notes due 2020 (effective interest rate of 6.0%) (authorized, $500)

  500            500         

5.8% notes due 2021 (effective interest rate of 5.9%) (authorized, $400)

  400            400         

7.3% debentures due 2023 (effective interest rate of 7.3%) (authorized, $250)

  243            243         

4.0% notes due 2024 (effective interest rate of 4.0%) (authorized, $550)

  550         

Variable rate note due 2036 (effective interest rate of 3.5%)

  30            30         

Capital lease obligation

  2         

Diamond Offshore:

Senior:

5.2% notes due 2014 (effective interest rate of 5.2%) (authorized, $250)

  250         

4.9% notes due 2015 (effective interest rate of 5.0%) (authorized, $250)

  250            250         

5.9% notes due 2019 (effective interest rate of 6.0%) (authorized, $500)

  500            500         

3.5% notes due 2023 (effective interest rate of 3.6%) (authorized, $250)

  250            250         

5.7% notes due 2039 (effective interest rate of 5.8%) (authorized, $500)

  500            500         

4.9% notes due 2043 (effective interest rate of 5.0%) (authorized, $750)

  750            750         

Boardwalk Pipeline:

Senior:

Variable rate revolving credit facility due 2017 (effective interest rate of 1.5% and 1.3%)

  120            175         

Variable rate term loan due 2017 (effective interest rate of 1.9%)

  200            225         

4.6% notes due 2015 (effective interest rate of 5.1%) (authorized, $250)

  250            250         

5.1% notes due 2015 (effective interest rate of 5.2%) (authorized, $275)

  275            275         

5.9% notes due 2016 (effective interest rate of 6.0%) (authorized, $250)

  250            250         

5.5% notes due 2017 (effective interest rate of 5.6%) (authorized, $300)

  300            300         

6.3% notes due 2017 (effective interest rate of 6.4%) (authorized, $275)

  275            275         

5.2% notes due 2018 (effective interest rate of 5.4%) (authorized, $185)

  185            185         

5.8% notes due 2019 (effective interest rate of 5.9%) (authorized, $350)

  350            350         

4.5% notes due 2021 (effective interest rate of 5.0%) (authorized, $440)

  440            440         

4.0% notes due 2022 (effective interest rate of 4.4%) (authorized, $300)

  300            300         

3.4% notes due 2023 (effective interest rate of 3.5%) (authorized, $300)

  300            300         

5.0% notes due 2024 (effective interest rate of 5.2%) (authorized, $350)

  350         

7.3% debentures due 2027 (effective interest rate of 8.1%) (authorized, $100)

  100            100         

Capital lease obligation

  10            10         

Loews Hotels:

Senior debt, principally mortgages (effective interest rates approximate 4.1% and 3.9%)

  506            202         

 

 
  10,736            10,409         

Less unamortized discount

  68            65         

 

 

Debt

$       10,668          $       10,344         

 

 

 

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December 31, 2014 Principal   Unamortized
Discount
  Net   Short Term
Debt
  Long Term  
Debt  
 

 

 
(In millions)                    

Loews Corporation

$ 1,700        $           20        $ 1,680      $ 1,680       

CNA Financial

  2,575       14          2,561      2,561       

Diamond Offshore

  2,250       19          2,231      $ 250         1,981       

Boardwalk Pipeline

  3,705       15          3,690      3,690       

Loews Hotels

  506       506      85         421       

 

 

Total

$   10,736        $ 68        $   10,668      $       335         $   10,333       

 

 

At December 31, 2014, the aggregate of long term debt maturing in each of the next five years is approximately as follows: $335 million in 2015, $1.0 billion in 2016, $1.5 billion in 2017, $368 million in 2018, $1.5 billion in 2019 and $6.0 billion thereafter. Long term debt is generally redeemable in whole or in part at the greater of the principal amount or the net present value of scheduled payments discounted at the specified treasury rate plus a margin.

CNA Financial

CNA is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (“FHLBC”). FHLBC membership provides participants with access to additional sources of liquidity through various programs and services. As a requirement of membership in the FHLBC, CNA held $16 million of FHLBC stock as of December 31, 2014, giving it access to approximately $330 million of additional liquidity. As of December 31, 2014, CNA has no outstanding borrowings from the FHLBC.

In February of 2014, CNA completed a public offering of $550 million aggregate principal amount of 4.0% senior notes due May 15, 2024 and in December of 2014, used the proceeds to repay at maturity the entire $549 million principal amount of its 5.9% senior notes.

CNA has a $250 million revolving credit agreement. The credit agreement, which matures on April 19, 2016, bears interest at London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus an applicable margin. At CNA’s election the commitments under the unsecured credit facility may be increased from time to time up to an additional aggregate amount of $100 million. As of December 31, 2014, there were no borrowings under the credit facility and CNA was in compliance with all covenants.

Diamond Offshore

In September of 2014, Diamond Offshore repaid at maturity the entire $250 million principal amount of its 5.2% senior notes.

Diamond Offshore has a $1.5 billion revolving credit agreement with a maturity date of 2019. The credit agreement bears interest at Diamond Offshore’s option on either an alternate base rate or Eurodollar rate, as defined in the credit agreement, plus an applicable margin. As of December 31, 2014, there were no borrowings under the credit facility and Diamond Offshore was in compliance with all covenants.

Boardwalk Pipeline

In November of 2014, Boardwalk Pipeline issued $350 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.0% Senior Notes due December 15, 2024. In February of 2015, Boardwalk Pipeline used a portion of the net proceeds to retire all of the outstanding $275 million aggregate principal amount of 5.1% notes due 2015. Boardwalk Pipeline intends to refinance all of the outstanding $250 million aggregate principal amount of 4.6% notes due 2015 on a long term basis and will have sufficient available capacity under their revolving credit facility to extend the amount that would otherwise come due in less than one year. The Boardwalk Pipeline Senior Notes due in 2015 are included in Long term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

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Boardwalk Pipeline has a revolving credit agreement with aggregate lending commitments of $1.0 billion. The credit agreement has a maturity date of April 27, 2017. As of December 31, 2014, Boardwalk Pipeline had $120 million of borrowings outstanding under the revolving credit facility with a weighted average interest rate on the borrowings of 1.5% and had no letters of credit issued. As of December 31, 2014, Boardwalk Pipeline was in compliance with all covenants under the credit facility and had available borrowing capacity of $880 million.

Loews Hotels

In August of 2014, Loews Hotels refinanced a $125 million 4.8% mortgage loan and entered into a new $300 million 4.1% mortgage loan due in September of 2024.

 

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Note 13.  Shareholders’ Equity

Accumulated other comprehensive income

The tables below display the changes in Accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) by component for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2013 and 2014:

 

  OTTI
Gains
(Losses)
  Unrealized
Gains (Losses)
on Investments
  Discontinued
Operations
  Cash Flow
Hedges
  Pension
Liability
   Foreign
 Currency
 Translation
  Total
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
 

 

 
(In millions)                            

Balance, January 1, 2012

$           (57)      $ 929          $ 31       $             (6)    $           (621)    $ 108       $ 384        

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, after tax of $(54), $(151), $(16), $(1), $76 and $0

  102       281           28         (2)      (145)      39       303        

Reclassification of (gains) losses from accumulated other comprehensive income, after tax of $10, $(31), $21, $(1), $(8) and $0

  (18)      58           (39)             13       19        

 

 

Other comprehensive income (loss)

  84       339           (11)             (132)      39       322        

Issuance of equity securities by subsidiary

       5        

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (9)      (35)          (1)      16       (4)      (33)       

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2012

  18       1,233           20         (4)      (732)      143       678        

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, after tax of $(3), $354, $3, $4, $(165) and $0

       (658)          (6)        (6)      307       (11)      (368)       

Reclassification of (gains) losses from accumulated other comprehensive income, after tax of $0, $10, $10, $(2), $(12) and $0

  (21)          (17)             22       (10)       

 

 

Other comprehensive income (loss)

       (679)          (23)             329       (11)      (378)       

Issuance of equity securities by subsidiary

       2        

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (1)      68           (31)           37        

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2013

  23       622           (3)        (4)      (432)      133       339        

Sale of subsidiaries

  (5)      (15)          20         -        

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, after tax of $(8), $(132), $(3), $1, $132 and $0

  15       295           2         (2)      (244)      (94)      (28)       

Reclassification of (gains) losses from accumulated other comprehensive income, after tax of $0, $10, $16, $0, $(7) and $0

  (28)          (21)        (1)           (41)       

 

 

Other comprehensive income (loss)

  15       267           (19)        (3)      (235)      (94)      (69)       

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (1)      (28)          2              26       10       10        

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2014

$ 32       $ 846          $ -       $ (6)    $ (641)    $ 49       $ 280        

 

 

 

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Amounts reclassified from AOCI shown above are reported in Net income as follows:

 

Major Category of AOCI Affected Line Item

 

OTTI gains (losses) Investment gains (losses)
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments Investment gains (losses)

Unrealized gains (losses) and cash flow hedges related to discontinued operations

Discontinued operations, net
Cash flow hedges Other revenues and Contract drilling expenses
Pension liability Other operating expenses

Common Stock Dividends

Dividends of $0.25 per share on the Company’s common stock were declared and paid in 2014, 2013 and 2012.

There are no restrictions on the Company’s retained earnings or net income with regard to payment of dividends. However, as a holding company, Loews relies upon invested cash balances and distributions from its subsidiaries to generate the funds necessary to declare and pay any dividends to holders of its common stock. The ability of the Company’s subsidiaries to pay dividends is subject to, among other things, the availability of sufficient earnings and funds in such subsidiaries, compliance with covenants in their respective loan agreements and applicable state laws, including in the case of the insurance subsidiaries of CNA, laws and rules governing the payment of dividends by regulated insurance companies. See Note 14 for a discussion of the regulatory restrictions on CNA’s availability to pay dividends.

Subsidiary Equity Transactions

Diamond Offshore repurchased 1.9 million shares of its outstanding common stock at an aggregate cost of $88 million during 2014. Loews purchased 1.9 million shares of Diamond Offshore common stock at an aggregate cost of $61 million during 2014. The Company’s percentage ownership interest in Diamond Offshore increased as a result of these transactions, from 50.4% to 52.5%. The purchase price of the shares exceeded the Company’s carrying value, resulting in a decrease to Additional paid-in capital of $1 million.

Treasury Stock

The Company repurchased 14.6 million, 4.9 million and 5.6 million shares of Loews common stock at aggregate costs of $622 million, $218 million and $222 million during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. Upon retirement, treasury stock is eliminated through a reduction to common stock, APIC and retained earnings.

Note 14.  Statutory Accounting Practices

CNA’s insurance subsidiaries are domiciled in various jurisdictions. These subsidiaries prepare statutory financial statements in accordance with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the respective jurisdictions’ insurance regulators. Domestic prescribed statutory accounting practices are set forth in a variety of publications of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) as well as state laws, regulations and general administrative rules. These statutory accounting principles vary in certain respects from GAAP. In converting from statutory accounting principles to GAAP, the more significant adjustments include deferral of policy acquisition costs and the inclusion of net unrealized holding gains or losses in shareholders’ equity relating to certain fixed maturity securities.

The payment of dividends by CNA’s insurance subsidiaries without prior approval of the insurance department of each subsidiary’s domiciliary jurisdiction is generally limited by formula. Dividends in excess of these amounts are subject to prior approval by the respective insurance regulator.

Dividends from CCC are subject to the insurance holding company laws of the State of Illinois, the domiciliary state of CCC. Under these laws, ordinary dividends, or dividends that do not require prior approval by the Department, are determined based on statutory net income and surplus as well as timing of dividends paid in the

 

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preceding twelve months. Ordinary dividends may only be paid from earned surplus, which is calculated by removing unrealized gains from unassigned surplus. As of December 31, 2014, CCC is in a positive earned surplus position, enabling CCC to pay approximately $466 million of dividend payments during 2015 that would not be subject to the Department’s prior approval. The actual level of dividends paid in any year is determined after an assessment of available dividend capacity, holding company liquidity and cash needs as well as the impact the dividends will have on the statutory surplus of the applicable insurance company.

Combined statutory capital and surplus and net income (loss), determined in accordance with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by insurance and/or other regulatory authorities for the Combined Continental Casualty Companies and the life company, were as follows:

 

  Statutory Capital and Surplus   Statutory Net Income  
 

 

 

 
  December 31   Year Ended December 31  
 

 

 

 
  2014 (a)       2013 (b)       2014 (a)       2013      2012     

 

 
(In millions)                    

Combined Continental Casualty Companies

$  11,155          $  11,137          $   914        $    913          $    391       

Life company

  -            597            37          48            44       

 

(a)

Information derived from the statutory-basis financial statements to be filed with insurance regulators.

(b)

Represents the combined statutory surplus of CCC and its subsidiaries, including the life company.

CNA’s domestic insurance subsidiaries are subject to risk-based capital (“RBC”) requirements. RBC is a method developed by the NAIC to determine the minimum amount of statutory capital appropriate for an insurance company to support its overall business operations in consideration of its size and risk profile. The formula for determining the amount of RBC specifies various factors, weighted based on the perceived degree of risk, which are applied to certain financial balances and financial activity. The adequacy of a company’s actual capital is evaluated by a comparison to the RBC results, as determined by the formula. Companies below minimum RBC requirements are classified within certain levels, each of which requires specified corrective action.

The statutory capital and surplus presented above for CCC was approximately 270% and 265% of company action level RBC at December 31, 2014 and 2013. Company action level RBC is the level of RBC which triggers a heightened level of regulatory supervision. The statutory capital and surplus of CCC’s foreign insurance subsidiaries, which is not significant to the overall statutory capital and surplus, also met or exceeded their respective regulatory and other capital requirements.

The Hardy entities are not owned by CCC, therefore their regulatory capital is not included in the Statutory Capital and Surplus of the Combined Continental Casualty Companies presented in the table above. At December 31, 2014, Hardy’s capital requirement included $105 million of capital provided by CCC which is included in Combined Continental Casualty Companies’ Statutory Capital and Surplus above.

Note 15.  Benefit Plans

Pension Plans – The Company has several non-contributory defined benefit plans for eligible employees. Benefits for certain plans are determined annually based on a specified percentage of annual earnings (based on the participant’s age or years of service) and a specified interest rate (which is established annually for all participants) applied to accrued balances. The benefits for another plan which covers salaried employees are based on formulas which include, among others, years of service and average pay. The Company’s funding policy is to make contributions in accordance with applicable governmental regulatory requirements.

Other Postretirement Benefit Plans – The Company has several postretirement benefit plans covering eligible employees and retirees. Participants generally become eligible after reaching age 55 with required years of service. Actual requirements for coverage vary by plan. Benefits for retirees who were covered by bargaining units vary by each unit and contract. Benefits for certain retirees are in the form of a Company health care account.

 

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Benefits for retirees reaching age 65 are generally integrated with Medicare. Other retirees, based on plan provisions, must use Medicare as their primary coverage, with the Company reimbursing a portion of the unpaid amount; or are reimbursed for the Medicare Part B premium or have no Company coverage. The benefits provided by the Company are basically health and, for certain retirees, life insurance type benefits.

The Company funds certain of these benefit plans, and accrues postretirement benefits during the active service of those employees who would become eligible for such benefits when they retire. The Company uses December 31 as the measurement date for its plans.

Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations:

 

  Pension Benefits   Other Postretirement Benefits  
 

 

 

 
December 31 2014     2013     2012   2014           2013         2012        

 

 

Discount rate

  3.7%      4.4%      3.6%      3.4%      4.2%      3.5%   

Expected long term rate of return on plan assets

  7.5%      7.5%      7.5% to 7.8%      5.3%      5.3%      5.3%   

Rate of compensation increase

  3.5% to 5.5%      3.5% to 5.5%      3.5% to 5.5%   

Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost:

 

  Pension Benefits   Other Postretirement Benefits  
 

 

 

 
Year Ended December 31 2014     2013     2012   2014           2013         2012        

 

 

Discount rate

  4.4%      3.9%      4.5%      4.0%      3.5%      4.4%   

Expected long term rate of return on plan assets

  7.5%      7.5% to 7.8%      7.5% to 8.0%      5.3%      5.3%      5.3%   

Rate of compensation increase

  3.5% to 5.5%      3.5% to 5.5%      4.0% to 5.5%   

The expected long term rate of return for plan assets is determined based on widely-accepted capital market principles, long term return analysis for global fixed income and equity markets as well as the active total return oriented portfolio management style. Long term trends are evaluated relative to market factors such as inflation, interest rates and fiscal and monetary policies, in order to assess the capital market assumptions as applied to the plan. Consideration of diversification needs and rebalancing is maintained.

Assumed health care cost trend rates:

 

December 31 2014       2013       2012      

 

 

Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year

  4.0% to 8.0%      4.0% to 8.5%      4.0% to 8.5%   

Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)

  4.0% to 5.0%      4.0% to 5.0%      4.0% to 5.0%   

Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate

  2015-2021      2014-2022      2013-2021   

Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plans. An increase or decrease in the assumed health care cost trend rate of 1% in each year would not have a significant impact on the Company’s service and interest cost as of December 31, 2014. An increase of 1% in each year would increase the Company’s accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31, 2014 by $3 million and a decrease of 1% in each year would decrease the Company’s accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31, 2014 by $3 million.

 

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Net periodic benefit cost components:

 

  Pension Benefits     Other Postretirement Benefits  
  

 

 

 
Year Ended December 31 2014     2013     2012       2014     2013     2012       

 

 
(In millions)                          

Service cost

  $ 16     $ 22     $ 24     $    $    $ 1        

Interest cost

  149       136       151                 5        

Expected return on plan assets

      (209)          (198)          (188)      (4)      (5)      (4)       

Amortization of unrecognized net loss

  30       54       47              

Amortization of unrecognized prior service benefit

  (1)      (18)      (25)      (25)       

Settlement/Curtailment

  86            (86)   

 

 

Net periodic benefit cost

  $ 71     $ 19     $ 34     $     (102)    $     (24)    $     (23)       

 

 

During 2014, CNA offered a limited-time lump sum settlement payment opportunity to the majority of the terminated vested participants of the CNA Retirement Plan. Settlement payments of $253 million were made from CNA Retirement Plan assets and an $84 million settlement charge was recorded by the Company in the fourth quarter of 2014 to recognize a portion of the unrecognized actuarial losses previously reflected in AOCI. This settlement charge is included in Other operating expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

In the second quarter of 2014, CNA eliminated certain postretirement medical benefits associated with the CNA Health and Group Benefits Program. This change was a negative plan amendment which resulted in an $86 million curtailment gain reported in Other operating expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income. In connection with the plan amendment, CNA remeasured the plan benefit obligation which resulted in a decrease to the discount rate used to determine the benefit obligation from 3.6% to 3.1%.

 

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The following provides a reconciliation of benefit obligations and plan assets:

 

                                                           
  Pension Benefits   Other Postretirement Benefits  
  

 

 

 
  2014   2013   2014   2013  

 

 
(In millions)                

Change in benefit obligation:

Benefit obligation at January 1

  $ 3,336     $     3,700         $ 101     $ 122        

Service cost

  16       22            1        

Interest cost

  149       136            4        

Plan participants’ contributions

       6        

Amendments/Curtailments

  (4)      (13)      (7)      (2)       

Actuarial (gain) loss

  402       (313)           (13)       

Benefits paid from plan assets

  (178)      (178)      (15)      (17)       

Settlements

  (268)      (19)   

Foreign exchange

  (7)        

 

 

Benefit obligation at December 31

  3,446       3,336       97       101        

 

 

Change in plan assets:

Fair value of plan assets at January 1

  2,914       2,672       81       87        

Actual return on plan assets

  233       340            (2)        

Company contributions

  19       98            7        

Plan participants’ contributions

       6        

Benefits paid from plan assets

  (178)      (178)      (15)      (17)       

Settlements

  (268)      (19)   

Foreign exchange

  (7)        

 

 

Fair value of plan assets at December 31

  2,713       2,914       87       81        

 

 

Funded status

  $ (733)    $ (422)        $ (10)    $ (20)       

 

 

Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:

Other assets

  $    $        $ 32     $ 31        

Other liabilities

  (742)      (431)      (42)      (51)       

 

 

Net amount recognized

  $ (733)    $ (422)        $ (10)    $ (20)       

 

 

Amounts recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), not yet recognized in net periodic (benefit) cost:

Prior service credit

  $ (5)    $ (6)        $ (19)    $ (117)       

Net actuarial loss

  1,090       831       18       18        

 

 

Net amount recognized

  $ 1,085     $ 825         $ (1)    $ (99)       

 

 

Information for plans with projected and accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets:

Projected benefit obligation

  $       3,336    $ 3,229   

Accumulated benefit obligation

  3,262      3,160        $ 42    $ 51        

Fair value of plan assets

  2,713      2,914   

 

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The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans was $3.4 billion and $3.3 billion at December 31, 2014 and 2013.

The Company employs a total return approach whereby a mix of equity and fixed maturity securities are used to maximize the long term return of plan assets for a prudent level of risk and to manage cash flows according to plan requirements. The target allocation of plan assets is 40% to 60% invested in equity securities and limited partnerships, with the remainder primarily invested in fixed maturity securities. The intent of this strategy is to minimize the Company’s expenses by generating investment returns that exceed the growth of the plan liabilities over the long run. Risk tolerance is established after careful consideration of the plan liabilities, plan funded status and corporate financial conditions. The investment portfolio contains a diversified blend of fixed maturity, equity and short term securities. Alternative investments, including limited partnerships, are used to enhance risk adjusted long term returns while improving portfolio diversification. At December 31, 2014, the Company had committed $115 million to future capital calls from various third party limited partnership investments in exchange for an ownership interest in the related partnerships. Investment risk is monitored through annual liability measurements, periodic asset/liability studies and quarterly investment portfolio reviews.

The table below presents the estimated amounts to be recognized from AOCI into net periodic cost (benefit) during 2015.

 

  Pension
Benefits
  Other        
Postretirement        
Benefits        
 

 

 
(In millions)        

Amortization of net actuarial loss

  $     45           $            1                

Amortization of prior service credit

  (1)          (10)               

 

 

Total estimated amounts to be recognized

  $ 44           $          (9)               

 

 

The table below presents the estimated future minimum benefit payments at December 31, 2014.

 

Expected future benefit payments Pension    
Benefits    
  Other        
Postretirement        
Benefits        
 

 

 
(In millions)        

2015

$ 217           $            9                

2016

  212           8                

2017

  211           8                

2018

  217           8                

2019

  219           7                

2020 - 2024

      1,100           30                

In 2015, it is expected that contributions of approximately $17 million will be made to pension plans and $5 million to postretirement health care and life insurance benefit plans.

 

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Pension plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below.

 

December 31, 2014 Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total    

 

 
(In millions)                

Fixed maturity securities:

Corporate and other bonds

$ 463            $ 15    $ 478         

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

  80              80         

Asset-backed

  216              216         

U.S. Treasury and obligations of government-sponsored enterprises

$ 25      25         

 

 

Total fixed maturities

  25      759              15      799         

Equity securities

  432      118              550         

Short term investments

  58      101              159         

Fixed income mutual funds

  99      99         

Limited partnerships:

Hedge funds

  619              333      952         

Private equity

  123      123         

 

 

Total limited partnerships

  -      619              456      1,075         

Other assets

  1      30              31         

 

 

Total

$         615    $     1,627            $         471    $     2,713         

 

 
December 31, 2013                

 

 

Fixed maturity securities:

Corporate and other bonds

$ 505            $ 15    $ 520         

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

  73              73         

Asset-backed

  254              254         

 

 

Total fixed maturities

$ -      832              15      847         

Equity securities

  527      117              8      652         

Short term investments

  49      49              98         

Fixed income mutual funds

  100      100         

Limited partnerships:

Hedge funds

  705              352      1,057         

Private equity

  125      125         

 

 

Total limited partnerships

  -      705              477      1,182         

Other assets

  35              35         

 

 

Total

$ 676    $ 1,738            $ 500    $ 2,914         

 

 

The limited partnership investments are recorded at fair value, which represents the plans’ share of the net asset value of each partnership. The share of the net asset value of each partnership is determined by the General Partner and is based upon the fair value of the underlying investments, which are valued using varying market approaches. Level 2 includes limited partnership investments which can be redeemed at net asset value in 90 days or less. Level 3 includes limited partnership investments with withdrawal provisions greater than 90 days, or for which withdrawals are not permitted until the termination of the partnership. Within hedge fund strategies, approximately 58% are equity related, 37% pursue a multi-strategy approach and 5% are focused on distressed investments at December 31, 2014.

For a discussion of the valuation methodologies used to measure fixed maturity securities, equities and short term investments, see Note 4.

 

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The tables below present reconciliations for all pension plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

     

 

Actual Return on Assets

 

Net
Purchases,

Sales, and
Settlements

 

Net Transfers

In (Out) of
Level 3

  Balance at
December 31,
 
2014 Balance at
January 1,
    Still Held at
  December 31,
  Sold During  
the Year  
 

 

 
(In millions)                        

Fixed maturity securities:

Corporate and other bonds

      $      15                  $      15         

Equity securities

  8                      $      (8)         

Limited partnerships:

Hedge funds

  352                  $    21                  (40)            333         

Private equity

  125                  19                  $      1               (22)            123         

 

 

Total limited partnerships

  477                  40                  1               (62)            $        -               456         

 

 

Total

      $    500                  $    40                  $      1                   $    (70)            $        -               $    471         

 

 
2013                        

 

 

Fixed maturity securities:

Corporate and other bonds

      $       11                  $      (1)                    $        5             $      15         

Equity securities

  5                  3                  8         

Limited partnerships:

Hedge funds

  391                  62                  (85)            $    (16)              352         

Private equity

  69                  2                  $     (1)              55             125         

 

 

Total limited partnerships

  460                  64                  (1)              (30)            (16)              477         

Investment contracts with insurance company

  10                  (10)            -         

 

 

Total

      $     486                  $     66                  $     (1)                  $    (35)            $    (16)              $    500         

 

 

Other postretirement benefits plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below.

 

December 31, 2014 Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total  

 

 
(In millions)                

Fixed maturity securities:

Corporate and other bonds

  $     18      $ 18         

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

  43        43         

Asset-backed

  20        20         

 

 

Total fixed maturities

$ -            81      $ -            81         

Short term investments

  3            3         

Fixed income mutual funds

  3            3         

 

 

Total

$ 6            $     81      $ -          $ 87         

 

 
December 31, 2013                

 

 

Fixed maturity securities:

Corporate and other bonds

  $     17      $ 17         

States, municipalities and political subdivisions

  38        38         

Asset-backed

  20        20         

 

 

Total fixed maturities

$ -            75      $ -            75         

Short term investments

  3            3         

Fixed income mutual funds

  3            3         

 

 

Total

$       6            $         75      $         -          $       81         

 

 

There were no Level 3 assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013.

 

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Savings Plans – The Company and its subsidiaries have several contributory savings plans which allow employees to make regular contributions based upon a percentage of their salaries. Matching contributions are made up to specified percentages of employees’ contributions. The contributions by the Company and its subsidiaries to these plans amounted to $125 million, $120 million and $113 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Stock Option Plans – In 2012, shareholders approved the amended and restated Loews Corporation 2000 Stock Option Plan (the “Loews Plan”). The aggregate number of shares of Loews common stock for which options or SARs may be granted under the Loews Plan is 18,000,000 shares, and the maximum number of shares of Loews common stock with respect to which options or SARs may be granted to any individual in any calendar year is 1,200,000 shares. The exercise price per share may not be less than the fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant. Generally, options and SARs vest ratably over a four-year period and expire in ten years.

A summary of the stock option and SAR transactions for the Loews Plan follows:

 

  2014   2013  
  

 

 

 
      Number of
    Awards
 

Weighted
Average
Exercise

Price

  Number of
Awards
  Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 

 

 

Awards outstanding, January 1

  6,476,391          $     38.497          6,535,150     $     36.963         

Granted

  910,375       43.839          903,975       44.408         

Exercised

  (392,519)      24.670          (871,155)      32.542         

Canceled

  (85,469)      45.117          (91,579)      43.975         

 

 

Awards outstanding, December 31

  6,908,778       39.905          6,476,391       38.497         

 

 

Awards exercisable, December 31

  4,924,249          $ 38.742          4,496,245     $ 37.282         

 

 

The following table summarizes information about the Company’s stock options and SARs outstanding in connection with the Loews Plan at December 31, 2014:

 

  Awards Outstanding   Awards Exercisable  
  

 

 

 
Range of exercise prices     Number of
    Shares
  Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
  Number of
Shares
  Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 

 

 

  $20.01-30.00

  584,200    2.71 $ 25.207      584,200    $     25.207       

    30.01-40.00

  2,674,903    4.70   36.874      2,284,666      36.567       

    40.01-50.00

  3,468,850    6.39   44.135      1,874,558      44.419       

    50.01-60.00

  180,825    2.05   51.080      180,825      51.080       

In 2014, the Company awarded SARs totaling 910,375 shares. In accordance with the Loews Plan, the Company has the ability to settle SARs in shares or cash and has the intention to settle in shares. The SARs balance at December 31, 2014 was 6,621,522 shares. There were 6,099,228 shares and 6,838,923 shares available for grant as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.

The weighted average remaining contractual terms of awards outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2014, were 5.3 years and 4.2 years. The aggregate intrinsic values of awards outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2014 were $24 million and $23 million. The total intrinsic value of awards exercised was $8 million, $11 million and $18 million for the years ended 2014, 2013 and 2012. The total fair value of shares vested was $7 million, $7 million and $11 million for the years ended 2014, 2013 and 2012.

 

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The Company recorded stock-based compensation expense of $6 million, $7 million and $8 million related to the Loews Plan for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. The related income tax benefits recognized were $2 million, $2 million and $3 million. At December 31, 2014, the compensation cost related to nonvested awards not yet recognized was $9 million, and the weighted average period over which it is expected to be recognized is 2.4 years.

The fair value of granted options and SARs for the Loews Plan were estimated at the grant date using the Black-Scholes pricing model with the following assumptions and results:

 

                                            
Year Ended December 31 2014       2013       2012          

 

 

Expected dividend yield

  0.6%      0.6%      0.6%       

Expected volatility

  16.9%      16.3%      19.0%       

Weighted average risk-free interest rate

  1.7%      1.1%      0.8%       

Expected holding period (in years)

  5.0          5.0          5.0          

Weighted average fair value of awards

$     7.41        $     6.75        $     6.53          

Note 16.  Reinsurance

CNA cedes insurance to reinsurers to limit its maximum loss, provide greater diversification of risk, minimize exposures on larger risks and to exit certain lines of business. The ceding of insurance does not discharge the primary liability of CNA. A credit exposure exists with respect to property and casualty and life reinsurance ceded to the extent that any reinsurer is unable to meet its obligations or to the extent that the reinsurer disputes the liabilities assumed under reinsurance agreements. Property and casualty reinsurance coverages are tailored to the specific risk characteristics of each product line and CNA’s retained amount varies by type of coverage. Reinsurance contracts are purchased to protect specific lines of business such as property and workers’ compensation. Corporate catastrophe reinsurance is also purchased for property and workers’ compensation exposure. Currently most reinsurance contracts are purchased on an excess of loss basis. CNA also utilizes facultative reinsurance in certain lines. In addition, CNA assumes reinsurance, primarily through Hardy and as a member of various reinsurance pools and associations.

The following table summarizes the amounts receivable from reinsurers:

 

                             
December 31 2014   2013      

 

 
(In millions)        

Reinsurance receivables related to insurance reserves:

Ceded claim and claim adjustment expenses

$     4,344    $     4,972       

Ceded future policy benefits

  185      733       

Ceded policyholders’ funds

  35       

Reinsurance receivables related to paid losses

  213      348       

 

 

Reinsurance receivables

  4,742      6,088       

Less allowance for doubtful accounts

  48      71       

 

 

Reinsurance receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts

$ 4,694    $ 6,017       

 

 

CNA has established an allowance for doubtful accounts on reinsurance receivables. CNA reviews the allowance quarterly and adjusts the allowance as necessary to reflect changes in estimates of uncollectible balances. The allowance may also be reduced related to write-offs of reinsurance receivable balances.

CNA attempts to mitigate its credit risk related to reinsurance by entering into reinsurance arrangements with reinsurers that have credit ratings above certain levels and by obtaining collateral. On a limited basis, CNA may enter into reinsurance agreements with reinsurers that are not rated, primarily captive reinsurers. The primary methods of obtaining collateral are through reinsurance trusts, letters of credit and funds withheld balances. Such collateral was approximately $3.4 billion and $3.9 billion at December 31, 2014 and 2013.

 

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CNA’s largest recoverables from a single reinsurer at December 31, 2014, including ceded unearned premium reserves were approximately $2.6 billion from subsidiaries of Berkshire Hathaway Group, $244 million from subsidiaries of the Hartford Insurance Group and $185 million from subsidiaries of Wilton Re. The recoverable from the Berkshire Hathaway Group includes amounts related to third party reinsurance for which NICO has assumed the credit risk under the terms of the Loss Portfolio Transfer as discussed in Note 9.

The effects of reinsurance on earned premiums are shown in the following table:

 

  Direct   Assumed   Ceded   Net   Assumed/
Net %
 

 

 
(In millions)                    

Year Ended December 31, 2014

Property and casualty

$     9,452    $ 277    $ 3,073    $ 6,656      4.2%   

Accident and health

  508      48      556      8.6       

 

 

Earned premiums

$ 9,960    $     325    $     3,073    $     7,212      4.5%   

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2013

Property and casualty

$ 9,063    $ 258    $ 2,609    $ 6,712      3.8%   

Accident and health

  511      48      559      8.6       

 

 

Earned premiums

$ 9,574    $ 306    $ 2,609    $ 7,271      4.2%   

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2012

Property and casualty

$ 8,354    $ 197    $ 2,229    $ 6,322      3.1%   

Accident and health

  512      47      559      8.4       

 

 

Earned premiums

$ 8,866    $ 244    $ 2,229    $ 6,881      3.5%   

 

 

Included in the direct and ceded earned premiums for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are $2.6 billion, $2.2 billion and $1.8 billion related to property business that is 100% reinsured under a significant third party captive program. The third party captives that participate in this program are affiliated with the non-insurance company policyholders, therefore this program provides a means for the policyholders to self-insure this property risk. CNA receives and retains a ceding commission.

Accident and health premiums are from long duration contracts; property and casualty premiums are from short duration contracts.

Insurance claims and policyholders’ benefits reported on the Consolidated Statements of Income are net of reinsurance recoveries of $1.4 billion, $1.5 billion and $1.4 billion for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, including $1.5 billion, $712 million and $814 million related to the significant third party captive program discussed above. Reinsurance recoveries in 2014 were unfavorably affected by the commutation of a workers’ compensation reinsurance pool.

 

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Note 17.  Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

 

2014 Quarter Ended Dec. 31   Sept. 30   June 30   March 31  

 

 
(In millions, except per share data)                

Total revenues

    $   3,521      $ 3,523      $   3,593      $ 3,688     

Income from continuing operations

  215        179      303        265     

Per share-basic

  0.58        0.47      0.79        0.68     

Per share-diluted

  0.57        0.47      0.79        0.68     

Discontinued operations, net

  (7)      29      (187)      (206)   

Per share-basic and diluted

  (0.02)      0.08      (0.49)      (0.53)   

Net income

  208        208      116        59     

Per share-basic

  0.56        0.55      0.30        0.15     

Per share-diluted

  0.55        0.55      0.30        0.15     
2013 Quarter Ended Dec. 31   Sept. 30   June 30   March 31  

 

 

Total revenues

    $ 3,782      $ 3,597      $ 3,616    $ 3,618     

Income from continuing operations (a)

  248        318      261      322     

Per share-basic and diluted

  0.64        0.82      0.67      0.82     

Discontinued operations, net (b)

  (446)      (36)      8      (80)   

Per share-basic and diluted

  (1.15)      (0.09)      0.02      (0.20)   

Net income (loss)

  (198)      282      269      242     

Per share-basic and diluted

  (0.51)      0.73      0.69      0.62     

The sum of the quarterly per share amounts may not equal per share amounts reported for year-to-date periods. This is due to changes in the number of weighted average shares outstanding and the effects of rounding for each period.

 

(a)

Income from continuing operations for the fourth quarter of 2013 includes the impact of a $111 million deferred gain under retroactive reinsurance accounting at CNA and a $16 million goodwill impairment charge at Boardwalk Pipeline.

(b)

Discontinued operations, net for the fourth quarter of 2013 includes a ceiling test impairment charge of $52 million at HighMount related to the carrying value of its natural gas and oil properties and a $382 million goodwill impairment charge.

Note 18.  Legal Proceedings

The Company and its subsidiaries are parties to litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. The outcome of this litigation will not, in the opinion of management, materially affect the Company’s results of operations or equity.

 

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Note 19.  Commitments and Contingencies

CNA Financial

In the course of selling business entities and assets to third parties, CNA agreed to guarantee the performance of certain obligations of a previously owned subsidiary and to indemnify purchasers for losses arising out of breaches of representation and warranties with respect to the business entities or assets being sold, including, in certain cases, losses arising from undisclosed liabilities or certain named litigation. Such guarantee and indemnification agreements may include provisions that survive indefinitely. As of December 31, 2014, the aggregate amount of quantifiable guarantee and indemnification agreements in effect for sales of business entities, assets and third party loans was $375 million and $324 million. Should CNA be required to make payments under the guarantee, it would have the right to seek reimbursement in certain cases from an affiliate of a previously owned subsidiary.

In addition, CNA has agreed to provide indemnification to third party purchasers for certain losses associated with sold business entities or assets that are not limited by a contractual monetary amount. As of December 31, 2014, CNA had outstanding unlimited indemnifications in connection with the sales of certain of its business entities or assets that included tax liabilities arising prior to a purchaser’s ownership of an entity or asset, defects in title at the time of sale, employee claims arising prior to closing and in some cases losses arising from certain litigation and undisclosed liabilities. Certain provisions of the indemnification agreements survive indefinitely while others survive until the applicable statutes of limitation expire, or until the agreed upon contract terms expire.

In the normal course of business, CNA also provided guarantees, if the primary obligor fails to perform, to holders of structured settlement annuities provided by a previously owned subsidiary, which are estimated to mature through 2120. The potential amount of future payments CNA could be required to pay under these guarantees was approximately $1.9 billion at December 31, 2014. CNA does not believe a payable is likely under these guarantees, as CNA is the beneficiary of a trust that must be maintained at a level that approximates the discounted reserves for these annuities.

Diamond Offshore

Diamond Offshore is financially obligated under a contract with Hyundai Heavy Industries, Co. Ltd. (“Hyundai”) for the construction of a dynamically positioned, harsh environment semisubmersible drilling rig, with expected delivery in the first quarter of 2016. The total cost of the rig including shipyard costs, customer-requested equipment, capital spares, commissioning, project management and shipyard supervision is estimated to be $764 million. The remaining contractual payment of $440 million is due upon delivery of the rig.

Diamond Offshore is financially obligated under a contract with Hyundai for the construction of an ultra-deepwater drillship, with expected delivery in the first quarter of 2015. The total cost of the drillship including shipyard costs, commissioning, capital spares and project management costs is estimated to be $655 million. The remaining contractual payment of $395 million is due upon delivery of the rig.

In July of 2014, Diamond Offshore was notified by Petróleo Brasileiro S.A., (“Petrobras”) that it is challenging assessments by Brazilian tax authorities of withholding taxes associated with the provision of drilling rigs for its operations in Brazil during the years 2008 and 2009. If Petrobras is ultimately assessed such withholding taxes, it will seek reimbursement from Diamond Offshore for the portion allocable to its drilling rigs. Diamond Offshore disputes any basis for Petrobras to obtain such reimbursement and has notified Petrobras of its position and intends to pursue all legal remedies available to defend any reimbursement claims against it vigorously. Diamond Offshore is currently unable to estimate the range of loss, if any, that it would incur if Petrobras is ultimately assessed such taxes and if it is determined that Petrobras is entitled to obtain reimbursement from Diamond Offshore. However, if Diamond Offshore’s position is not sustained, the amount of such reimbursement could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition and the Company’s results of operations and cash flows.

 

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Note 20.  Discontinued Operations

As discussed in Note 2, HighMount and the CAC business are classified and presented as discontinued operations.

The Consolidated Statements of Income include discontinued operations of HighMount as follows:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012  

 

 
(In millions)            

Revenues:

Other revenue, primarily operating

$ 150     $ 259     $ 297        

 

 

Total

  150       259       297        

 

 

Expenses:

Impairment of goodwill

  584    

Other operating expenses

Impairment of natural gas and oil properties

  29       291       680        

Operating

  173       252       239        

Interest

       17       14        

 

 

Total

  210       1,144       933        

 

 

Loss before income tax

  (60)      (885)      (636)       

Income tax benefit

       311       229        

 

 

Results of discontinued operations, net of income tax

  (56)      (574)      (407)       

Impairment loss, net of tax benefit of $62

  (138)   

 

 

Loss from discontinued operations

$       (194)    $       (574)    $       (407)       

 

 

In 2014, 2013 and 2012, HighMount recorded ceiling test impairment charges of $29 million, $291 million and $680 million ($19 million, $186 million and $433 million after tax) related to the carrying value of its natural gas and oil properties. The 2014 write-down was primarily attributable to insufficient reserve additions from recent exploration activities due to variability in well performance where HighMount was testing different horizontal target zones and hydraulic fracture designs. The 2013 write-downs were primarily attributable to negative reserve revisions due to variability in well performance where HighMount was testing different horizontal target zones and hydraulic fracture designs and due to reduced average NGL prices used in the ceiling test calculations. The write-downs in 2012 were the result of significant declines in natural gas and NGL prices. Had the effects of HighMount’s cash flow hedges not been considered in calculating the ceiling limitation, the impairments would have been $29 million, $301 million and $737 million ($18 million, $192 million and $469 million after tax) for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Recognition of a ceiling test impairment charge was considered a triggering event for purposes of assessing any potential impairment of goodwill at HighMount under a two-step process. The first step compared HighMount’s estimated fair value to its carrying value. Due to the continued low market prices for natural gas and NGLs, the history of quarterly ceiling test write-downs during 2012 and 2013 and the then potential for future impairments, and negative reserve revisions recognized during 2013, HighMount reassessed its goodwill impairment analysis. To determine fair value, HighMount used a market approach which required significant estimates and assumptions and utilized significant unobservable inputs, representing a Level 3 fair value measurement. These estimates and assumptions primarily included, but were not limited to, earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization, production and reserves, control premium, discount rates and required capital expenditures. These valuation techniques were based on analysis of comparable public companies, adjusted for HighMount’s growth profile. In the first step, HighMount determined that its carrying value exceeded its fair value requiring HighMount to perform the second step and to estimate the fair value of its assets and liabilities. The carrying value of goodwill was limited to the amount that HighMount’s estimated fair value exceeded the fair value of assets and liabilities. As a result, HighMount recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $584 million ($382 million after tax) for the year ended December 31, 2013, consisting of all of its remaining goodwill.

 

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The Consolidated Statements of Income include discontinued operations of the CAC business as follows:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012  

 

 
(In millions)            

Revenues:

Net investment income

$ 94     $         168     $         172        

Investment gains

       11       9        

Other revenues

       2        

 

 

Total

  97       181       183        

 

 

Expenses:

Insurance claims and policyholders’ benefits

  75       141       167        

Other operating expenses

            3        

 

 

Total

  77       144       170        

 

 

Income before income tax

  20       37       13        

Income tax expense

  (6)      (15)      (5)       

 

 

Results of discontinued operations, net of income tax

  14       22       8        

Loss on sale, net of tax benefit of $40

  (211)   

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

  20       (2)      (1)       

 

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

$         (177)    $ 20     $ 7        

 

 

The following table presents the assets and liabilities of HighMount reported as discontinued operations as follows:

 

December 31, 2013 HighMount   Eliminations   Total  

 

 
(In millions)            

Assets:

Investments, including cash

$ 29    $ 29       

Receivables

  143    $ (120   23       

Property, plant and equipment

  974      974       

Deferred income taxes

  517      (517   -       

Other assets

  15      15       

 

 

Total assets of discontinued operations

$ 1,678    $ (637 $ 1,041       

 

 

Liabilities:

Short term debt

$ 21    $ 21       

Long term debt

  481      481       

Other liabilities

  130      130       

 

 

Total liabilities of discontinued operations

$ 632    $ -    $       632       

 

 

Note 21.  Business Segments

The Company’s reportable segments are primarily based on its individual operating subsidiaries. Each of the principal operating subsidiaries are headed by a chief executive officer who is responsible for the operation of its business and has the duties and authority commensurate with that position. Investment gains (losses) and the related income taxes, excluding those of CNA, are included in the Corporate and other segment. The Company revised its CNA related segments in the fourth quarter of 2014 as a result of realigned management responsibilities at CNA. Results of CNA Europe and Canada that were previously included in the Specialty and Commercial segments and results of Hardy that were previously included in the Other Non-Core segment are now included in the International segment. Prior period segment disclosures have been conformed to the current year presentation. The new segment structure reflects the way management currently reviews results and makes business decisions.

 

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Table of Contents

CNA’s results are reported in four business segments: Specialty, Commercial, International and Other Non-Core. Specialty provides a broad array of professional, financial and specialty property and casualty products and services, through a network of independent agents, brokers and managing general underwriters. Commercial includes property and casualty coverages sold to small businesses and middle market entities and organizations primarily through an independent agency distribution system. Commercial also includes commercial insurance and risk management products sold to large corporations primarily through insurance brokers. International provides management and professional liability coverages as well as a broad range of other property and casualty insurance products and services abroad through a network of brokers, independent agencies and managing general underwriters, as well as the Lloyd’s marketplace. Other Non-Core primarily includes the results of CNA’s individual and group long term care businesses that are in run-off and also includes corporate expenses, including interest on corporate debt, and the results of certain property and casualty business in run-off, including CNA Re and A&EP.

Diamond Offshore owns and operates offshore drilling rigs that are chartered on a contract basis for fixed terms by companies engaged in exploration and production of hydrocarbons. Offshore rigs are mobile units that can be relocated based on market demand. Diamond Offshore’s fleet consists of 38 drilling rigs, excluding three mid-water rigs that Diamond Offshore plans to retire and scrap and including two newbuild rigs which are under construction. On December 31, 2014, Diamond Offshore’s drilling rigs were located offshore eight countries in addition to the United States.

Boardwalk Pipeline is engaged in the interstate transportation and storage of natural gas and NGLs and gathering and processing of natural gas. This segment consists of interstate natural gas pipeline systems originating in the Gulf Coast region, Oklahoma and Arkansas, and extending north and east through the midwestern states of Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio, natural gas storage facilities in four states and NGL pipelines and storage facilities in Louisiana, with approximately 14,625 miles of pipeline.

Loews Hotels operates a chain of 21 hotels, 20 of which are in the United States and one of which is in Canada.

The Corporate and other segment consists primarily of corporate investment income, corporate interest expense and other unallocated expenses.

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in Note 1. In addition, CNA does not maintain a distinct investment portfolio for every insurance segment, and accordingly, allocation of assets to each segment is not performed. Therefore, a significant portion of net investment income and investment gains (losses) are allocated based on each segment’s carried insurance reserves, as adjusted.

The HighMount and CAC businesses are reported as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. See Notes 2 and 20 for further discussion of discontinued operations.

 

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The following tables set forth the Company’s consolidated revenues and income (loss) by business segment:

 

                                            
Year Ended December 31 2014       2013   2012  

 

 
(In millions)        

Revenues (a):

CNA Financial:

Property and Casualty:

Specialty

$ 3,708         $ 3,676         $ 3,522        

Commercial

  3,683           3,984           3,869        

International

  973           981           712        

Other Non-Core

  1,328           1,291           1,261        

 

 

Total CNA Financial

  9,692           9,932           9,364        

Diamond Offshore

  2,825           2,926           3,072        

Boardwalk Pipeline

  1,236           1,232           1,187        

Loews Hotels

  475           380           397        

Corporate and other

  97           143           52        

 

 

Total

$     14,325         $     14,613         $     14,072        

 

 

Income (loss) before income tax and noncontrolling interests (a)(b):

CNA Financial:

Property and Casualty:

Specialty

$ 967         $ 1,005         $ 715        

Commercial

  477           662           399        

International

  102           117           98        

Other Non-Core

  (331)          (501)          (345)       

 

 

Total CNA Financial

  1,215           1,283           867        

Diamond Offshore

  514           774           917        

Boardwalk Pipeline

  140           241           304        

Loews Hotels

  21           (4)          14        

Corporate and other

  (80)          (17)          (80)       

 

 

Total

$ 1,810         $ 2,277         $ 2,022        

 

 

Net income (loss) (a)(b):

CNA Financial:

Property and Casualty:

Specialty

$ 578         $ 598         $ 425        

Commercial

  285           394           241        

International

  62           65           51        

Other Non-Core

  (123)          (230)          (154)       

 

 

Total CNA Financial

  802           827           563        

Diamond Offshore

  183           257           337        

Boardwalk Pipeline

  18           78           111        

Loews Hotels

  11           (3)          7        

Corporate and other

  (52)          (10)          (50)       

 

 

Income from continuing operations

  962           1,149           968        

Discontinued operations, net

  (371)          (554)          (400)       

 

 

Total

$ 591         $ 595         $ 568        

 

 

 

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(a)

Investment gains (losses) included in Revenues, Income (loss) before income tax and noncontrolling interests and Net income (loss) are as follows:

 

Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012  

 

 

Revenues and Income (loss) before income tax and noncontrolling interests:

CNA Financial:

Property and Casualty:

Specialty

$ 15     $ (5)    $ 18        

Commercial

  16       (15)      34        

International

  (1)           7        

Other Non-Core

  24       31       (8)       

 

 

Total CNA Financial

  54       16       51        

Corporate and other

  (3)       

 

 

Total

$ 54     $ 16    $ 48        

 

 

Net income (loss):

CNA Financial:

Property and Casualty:

Specialty

$    $ (2)    $ 10        

Commercial

       (9)      20        

International

  (1)           5        

Other Non-Core

  15       18       (5)       

 

 

Total CNA Financial

  32       10       30        

Corporate and other

  (2)       

 

 

Total

$             32     $             10     $             28        

 

 

 

(b)

Income taxes and interest expense are as follows:

 

                                                                                                                                   
Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012  

 

 
  Income
Taxes
  Interest
Expense
  Income
Taxes
  Interest
Expense
  Income
Taxes
  Interest
Expense
 

 

 

CNA Financial:

Property and Casualty:

Specialty

$ 324         $ 340         $ 243        

Commercial

  159           223           131        

International

  34         $ 1           45         $ 1           42         $ 1       

Other Non-Core

  (195)          182           (245)          165           (174)          169       

 

 

Total CNA Financial

  322           183           363           166           242           170       

Diamond Offshore

  142           62           245           25           223           46       

Boardwalk Pipeline

  11           165           56           163           70           166       

Loews Hotels

  10           14           (1)          9           7           11       

Corporate and other

  (28)          74           (7)          62           (29)          33       

 

 

Total

$ 457         $ 498         $ 656         $ 425         $ 513         $ 426       

 

 

 

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Note 22.  Consolidating Financial Information

The following schedules present the Company’s consolidating balance sheet information at December 31, 2014 and 2013, and consolidating statements of income information for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. These schedules present the individual subsidiaries of the Company and their contribution to the consolidated financial statements. Amounts presented will not necessarily be the same as those in the individual financial statements of the Company’s subsidiaries due to adjustments for purchase accounting, income taxes and noncontrolling interests. In addition, many of the Company’s subsidiaries use a classified balance sheet which also leads to differences in amounts reported for certain line items.

The Corporate and other column primarily reflects the parent company’s investment in its subsidiaries, invested cash portfolio and corporate long term debt and assets and liabilities of discontinued operations of HighMount. The elimination adjustments are for intercompany assets and liabilities, interest and dividends, the parent company’s investment in capital stocks of subsidiaries, and various reclasses of debit or credit balances to the amounts in consolidation. Purchase accounting adjustments have been pushed down to the appropriate subsidiary.

 

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Loews Corporation

Consolidating Balance Sheet Information

 

December 31, 2014 CNA
Financial
  Diamond
Offshore
  Boardwalk
Pipeline
  Loews
Hotels
  Corporate
and Other
  Eliminations   Total  

 

 
(In millions)                            

Assets:

Investments

$ 46,262    $ 234    $ 75    $ 5,461    $     52,032      

Cash

  190      16    $ 8      9      141      364      

Receivables

  7,097      490      128      29      82     $ (56)        7,770      

Property, plant and equipment

  280      6,949      7,649      671      62      15,611      

Deferred income taxes

  222      2      374      (598)        -      

Goodwill

  117      20      237      374      

Investments in capital stocks of subsidiaries

  15,974      (15,974)        -      

Other assets

  778      307      304      206      7      14         1,616      

Deferred acquisition costs of insurance subsidiaries

  600      600      

 

 

Total assets

$ 55,546    $ 8,016    $ 8,326    $ 992    $ 22,101     $ (16,614)      $     78,367      

 

 

Liabilities and Equity:

Insurance reserves

$ 36,380    $     36,380      

Payable to brokers

  117    $ 5    $ 551      673      

Short term debt

  250    $ 85      335      

Long term debt

  2,561      1,981    $ 3,690      421      1,680      10,333      

Deferred income taxes

  11      514      732      36     $ (400)        893      

Other liabilities

  3,713      792      400      17      421      (240)        5,103      

 

 

Total liabilities

  42,782      3,542      4,822      559      2,652      (640)        53,717      

 

 

Total shareholders’ equity

  11,457      2,359      1,558      431      19,449      (15,974)        19,280      

Noncontrolling interests

  1,307      2,115      1,946      2      5,370      

 

 

Total equity

  12,764      4,474      3,504      433      19,449      (15,974)        24,650      

 

 

Total liabilities and equity

$   55,546    $ 8,016    $ 8,326    $         992    $ 22,101     $ (16,614)      $     78,367      

 

 

 

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Loews Corporation

Consolidating Balance Sheet Information

 

December 31, 2013 CNA
Financial
  Diamond
Offshore
  Boardwalk
Pipeline
  Loews
Hotels
  Corporate
and Other
  Eliminations   Total  

 

 
(In millions)                            

Assets:

Investments

$     46,107    $     2,061    $ 43    $ 4,734    $     52,945      

Cash

  195      36    $ 29      10      24      294      

Receivables

  8,666      498      97      28      74    $ (25)        9,338      

Property, plant and equipment

  282      5,472      7,296      430      44      13,524      

Deferred income taxes

  244      3      (247)        -      

Goodwill

  119      20      215      3      357      

Assets of discontinued operations

  1,678      (637)        1,041      

Investments in capital stocks of subsidiaries

  17,264      (17,264)        -      

Other assets

  741      305      360      183      7      39         1,635      

Deferred acquisition costs of insurance subsidiaries

  624      624      

Separate account business

  181      181      

 

 

Total assets

$ 57,159    $ 8,392    $ 7,997    $ 700    $ 23,825    $ (18,134)      $     79,939      

 

 

Liabilities and Equity:

Insurance reserves

$ 38,394    $     38,394      

Payable to brokers

  85    $ 1    $ 48      134      

Short term debt

  549      250    $ 20      819      

Long term debt

  2,011      2,230    $ 3,424      182      1,678      9,525      

Deferred income taxes

  516      689      41      195    $ (725)        716      

Liabilities of discontinued operations

  632      632      

Other liabilities

  3,323      734      427      23      690      (565)        4,632      

Separate account business

  181      181      

 

 

Total liabilities

  44,543      3,731      4,540      266      3,243      (1,290)        55,033      

 

 

Total shareholders’ equity

  11,354      2,362      1,570      434      20,582      (16,844)        19,458      

Noncontrolling interests

  1,262      2,299      1,887      5,448      

 

 

Total equity

  12,616      4,661      3,457      434      20,582      (16,844)        24,906      

 

 

Total liabilities and equity

$ 57,159    $ 8,392    $ 7,997    $         700    $ 23,825    $ (18,134)      $     79,939      

 

 

 

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Loews Corporation

Consolidating Statement of Income Information

 

Year Ended December 31, 2014 CNA
Financial
  Diamond
Offshore
  Boardwalk
Pipeline
  Loews
Hotels
  Corporate
and Other
  Eliminations   Total  

 

 
(In millions)                            

Revenues:

Insurance premiums

$ 7,212        $     7,212          

Net investment income

  2,067        $ 1       $ 1       $ 94        2,163          

Intercompany interest and dividends

  782      $ (782)        -          

Investment gains

  54          54          

Contract drilling revenues

  2,737         2,737          

Other revenues

  359          87         1,235       $         475      3        2,159          

 

 

Total

  9,692          2,825         1,236         475      879        (782)        14,325          

 

 

Expenses:

Insurance claims and policyholders’ benefits

  5,591          5,591          

Amortization of deferred acquisition costs

  1,317          1,317          

Contract drilling expenses

  1,524       1,524          

Other operating expenses

  1,386          725       931       440      103        3,585          

Interest

  183          62       165       14      74        498          

 

 

Total

    8,477            2,311       1,096       454      177        -         12,515          

 

 

Income before income tax

  1,215          514       140       21      702        (782)        1,810          

Income tax (expense) benefit

  (322)         (142   (11)      (10   28        (457)         

 

 

Income from continuing operations

  893          372       129       11      730        (782)        1,353          

Discontinued operations, net

  (197)         (194)       (391)         

 

 

Net income

  696          372       129       11      536        (782)        962          

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (71)         (189   (111)      (371)         

 

 

Net income attributable to Loews Corporation

$ 625        $ 183     $ 18     $ 11    $ 536      $ (782)      $     591          

 

 

 

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Loews Corporation

Consolidating Statement of Income Information

 

Year Ended December 31, 2013 CNA
Financial
  Diamond
Offshore
  Boardwalk
Pipeline
  Loews
Hotels
  Corporate
and Other
  Eliminations   Total  

 

 
(In millions)                            

Revenues:

Insurance premiums

$ 7,271      $     7,271          

Net investment income

  2,282      $ 1       $ 1       $ 141      2,425          

Intercompany interest and dividends

  736    $ (736)        -          

Investment gains

  16        16          

Contract drilling revenues

  2,844         2,844          

Other revenues

  363        81         1,231       $         380      2      2,057          

 

 

Total

  9,932        2,926         1,232         380      879      (736)        14,613          

 

 

Expenses:

Insurance claims and policyholders’ benefits

  5,806        5,806          

Amortization of deferred acquisition costs

  1,362        1,362          

Contract drilling expenses

  1,573       1,573          

Other operating expenses

  1,315        554       828       375      98      3,170          

Interest

  166        25       163       9      62      425          

 

 

Total

  8,649        2,152       991       384      160      -         12,336          

 

 

Income (loss) before income tax

  1,283        774       241       (4   719      (736)        2,277          

Income tax (expense) benefit

  (363)       (245)      (56)      1      7      (656)         

 

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations

  920        529       185       (3   726      (736)        1,621          

Discontinued operations, net

  22        (574   (552)         

 

 

Net income (loss)

  942        529       185       (3   152      (736)        1,069          

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (95)       (272)      (107)      (474)         

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to Loews Corporation

$ 847      $ 257     $ 78     $ (3 $ 152    $ (736)      $     595          

 

 

 

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Loews Corporation

Consolidating Statement of Income Information

 

Year Ended December 31, 2012 CNA
Financial
  Diamond
Offshore
  Boardwalk
Pipeline
  Loews
Hotels
  Corporate
and Other
  Eliminations   Total  

 

 
(In millions)                            

Revenues:

Insurance premiums

$ 6,881     $ 6,881          

Net investment income

  2,110     $ 5       $ 1    $ 61      2,177          

Intercompany interest and dividends

  683    $ (683)        -          

Investment gains (losses)

  51     $ (3)       48          

Contract drilling revenues

  2,936         2,936          

Other revenues

  322       131         1,187        396      1      (7)        2,030          

 

 

Total

     9,364             3,072         1,184                397              745      (690)        14,072          

 

 

Expenses:

Insurance claims and policyholders’ benefits

  5,729       5,729          

Amortization of deferred acquisition costs

  1,274       1,274          

Contract drilling expenses

  1,537        1,537          

Other operating expenses

  1,324       572        717      372      106      (7)        3,084          

Interest

  170       46        166      11      40      (7)        426          

 

 

Total

  8,497       2,155        883      383      146      (14)         12,050          

 

 

Income before income tax

  867       917        301      14      599      (676)        2,022          

Income tax (expense) benefit

  (242   (223)       (70   (7   29      (513)         

 

 

Income from continuing operations

  625       694        231      7      628      (676)        1,509          

Discontinued operations, net

       (407   (399)         

 

 

Net income

  633       694        231      7      221      (676)        1,110          

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (63)      (357)       (122   (542)         

 

 

Net income attributable to Loews Corporation

$ 570     $ 337      $ 109    $ 7    $ 221    $        (676)      $ 568          

 

 

 

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Item 9.  Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

None.

Item 9A.  Controls and Procedures.

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company maintains a system of disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) which is designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that it files or submits under the federal securities laws, including this Report is recorded, processed, summarized and reported on a timely basis. These disclosure controls and procedures include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management on a timely basis to allow decisions regarding required disclosure.

The Company’s principal executive officer (“CEO”) and principal financial officer (“CFO”) undertook an evaluation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) as of the end of the period covered by this Report. The CEO and CFO have concluded that the Company’s controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2014.

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, and the implementing rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Company included a report of management’s assessment of the design and effectiveness of its internal controls as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. The independent registered public accounting firm of the Company reported on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014. Management’s report and the independent registered public accounting firm’s report are included in Item 8 of this Report under the captions entitled “Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” and “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” and are incorporated herein by reference.

There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) identified in connection with the foregoing evaluation that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2014, that have materially affected or that are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Item 9B.  Other Information.

None.

PART III

Except as set forth below and under Executive Officers of the Registrant in Part I of this Report, the information called for by Part III (Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14) has been omitted as Registrant intends to include such information in its definitive Proxy Statement to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the close of its fiscal year.

 

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PART IV

Item 15.  Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.

(a) 1.  Financial Statements:

The financial statements above appear under Item 8. The following additional financial data should be read in conjunction with those financial statements. Schedules not included with these additional financial data have been omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is shown in the consolidated financial statements or notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

  Page
Number

2.  Financial Statement Schedules:

Loews Corporation and Subsidiaries:

Schedule I–Condensed financial information of Registrant as of December  31, 2014 and 2013 and for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

180

Schedule II–Valuation and qualifying accounts for the years ended December  31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

182

Schedule V–Supplemental information concerning property and casualty insurance operations as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 and for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

183

 

 

Description

Exhibit

Number

3. Exhibits:

  (3)

Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws

Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant, dated August 11, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2009

3.01 

By-Laws of the Registrant as amended through October 9, 2007, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-Q filed October 31, 2007

3.02 

  (4)

Instruments Defining the Rights of Security Holders, Including Indentures

The Registrant hereby agrees to furnish to the Commission upon request copies of instruments with respect to long term debt, pursuant to Item 601(b)(4)(iii) of Regulation S-K

 (10)

Material Contracts

Loews Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan amended and restated as of January 1, 2008, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.01 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008

10.01+

Loews Corporation Incentive Compensation Plan for Executive Officers, as amended through October 30, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.02 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009

10.02+

 

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Table of Contents
 

Description

Exhibit

Number

Loews Corporation Amended and Restated Stock Option Plan, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit A to Registrant’s Proxy Statement filed with the Commission on March 26, 2012

10.03+ 

Separation Agreement, dated as of May 7, 2008, by and among Registrant, Lorillard, Inc., Lorillard Tobacco Company, Lorillard Licensing Company LLC, One Park Media Services, Inc. and Plisa, S.A., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2008

10.04  

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated as of February 12, 2015 between Registrant and Andrew H. Tisch

10.05*+

Supplemental Retirement Agreement dated January 1, 2002 between Registrant and Andrew H. Tisch, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001

10.06+ 

Amendment No. 1 dated January 1, 2003 to Supplemental Retirement Agreement between Registrant and Andrew H. Tisch, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.33 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002

10.07+ 

Amendment No. 2 dated January 1, 2004 to Supplemental Retirement Agreement between Registrant and Andrew H. Tisch, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003

10.08+ 

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated as of February 12, 2015 between Registrant and James S. Tisch

10.09*+

Supplemental Retirement Agreement dated January 1, 2002 between Registrant and James S. Tisch, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.31 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001

10.10+ 

Amendment No. 1 dated January 1, 2003 to Supplemental Retirement Agreement between Registrant and James S. Tisch, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.35 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002

10.11+ 

Amendment No. 2 dated January 1, 2004 to Supplemental Retirement Agreement between Registrant and James S. Tisch, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.34 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003

10.12+ 

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated as of February 12, 2015 between Registrant and Jonathan M. Tisch

10.13*+

Supplemental Retirement Agreement dated January 1, 2002 between Registrant and Jonathan M. Tisch, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.32 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001

10.14+ 

Amendment No. 1 dated January 1, 2003 to Supplemental Retirement Agreement between Registrant and Jonathan M. Tisch, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.37 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002

10.15+ 

Amendment No. 2 dated January 1, 2004 to Supplemental Retirement Agreement between Registrant and Jonathan M. Tisch, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.41 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003

10.16+ 

 

176


Table of Contents
 

Description

Exhibit

Number

Form of Stock Option Certificate for grants to executive officers and other employees and to non-employee directors pursuant to the Loews Corporation Amended and Restated Stock Option Plan, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009

10.17+    

Form of Award Certificate for grants of stock appreciation rights to executive officers and other employees pursuant to the Loews Corporation Amended and Restated Stock Option Plan, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.28 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009

10.18+    

Lease agreement dated November 20, 2001 between 61st & Park Ave. Corp. and Preston R. Tisch and Joan Tisch, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Registrant’s Report on Form 10-Q filed August 4, 2009

10.19     

 (21)

Subsidiaries of the Registrant

List of subsidiaries of the Registrant

21.01*    

 (23)

Consent of Experts and Counsel

Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP

23.01*    

 (31)

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications

Certification by the Chief Executive Officer of the Company pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a)

31.01*    

Certification by the Chief Financial Officer of the Company pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a)

31.02*    

 (32)

Section 1350 Certifications

Certification by the Chief Executive Officer of the Company pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 (as adopted by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)

32.01*    

Certification by the Chief Financial Officer of the Company pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 (as adopted by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)

32.02*    

(100)

XBRL - Related Documents

XBRL Instance Document

101.INS*

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema

101.SCH*

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase

101.CAL*

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase

101.DEF*

XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase

101.LAB*

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase

101.PRE*

*Filed herewith.

+Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

 

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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.

 

 

LOEWS CORPORATION
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By    

/s/ David B. Edelson

(David B. Edelson, Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer)

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Dated:      February 23, 2015 By    

/s/ James S. Tisch

(James S. Tisch, President,
Chief Executive Officer and Director)
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By

/s/ David B. Edelson

(David B. Edelson, Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer)
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By

/s/ Mark S. Schwartz

(Mark S. Schwartz, Vice President and
Chief Accounting Officer)
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By

/s/ Lawrence S. Bacow

(Lawrence S. Bacow, Director)
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By

/s/ Ann E. Berman

(Ann E. Berman, Director)
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By

/s/ Joseph L. Bower

(Joseph L. Bower, Director)

 

 

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Dated:      February 23, 2015 By    

/s/ Charles M. Diker

(Charles M. Diker, Director)
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By

/s/ Jacob A. Frenkel

(Jacob A. Frenkel, Director)
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By

/s/ Paul J. Fribourg

(Paul J. Fribourg, Director)
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By

/s/ Walter L. Harris

(Walter L. Harris, Director)
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By

/s/ Philip A. Laskawy

(Philip A. Laskawy, Director)
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By

/s/ Ken Miller

(Ken Miller, Director)
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By

/s/ Andrew H. Tisch

(Andrew H. Tisch, Director)
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By

/s/ Jonathan M. Tisch

(Jonathan M. Tisch, Director)
Dated:      February 23, 2015 By

/s/ Anthony Welters

(Anthony Welters, Director)

 

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SCHEDULE I

Condensed Financial Information of Registrant

LOEWS CORPORATION

BALANCE SHEETS

ASSETS

 

December 31     2014   2013  

 

 
(In millions)            

Current assets, principally investment in short term instruments

$ 3,959    $ 3,350         

Investments in securities

  1,439      1,330         

Investments in capital stocks of subsidiaries, at equity

  15,974      17,264         

Other assets

  585      33         

 

 

Total assets

$     21,957    $     21,977         

 

 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY   

Current liabilities

$ 618    $ 91         

Long term debt

  1,680      1,678         

Deferred income tax and other

  379      750         

 

 

Total liabilities

  2,677      2,519         

Shareholders’ equity

  19,280      19,458         

 

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

$ 21,957    $ 21,977         

 

 

STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

 

Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012  

 

 
(In millions)            

Revenues:

Equity in income of subsidiaries (a)

$     1,034    $     1,218    $     1,053         

Interest and other

  92      83      51         

 

 

Total

  1,126      1,301      1,104         

 

 

Expenses:

Administrative

  97      91      101         

Interest

  74      62      40         

 

 

Total

  171      153      141         

 

 

Income before income tax

  955      1,148      963         

Income tax benefit

  7      1      5         

 

 

Income from continuing operations

  962      1,149      968         

Discontinued operations, net

  (371   (554   (400)        

 

 

Net income

  591      595      568         

Equity in other comprehensive income (loss) of subsidiaries

  (59   (341   289         

 

 

Total comprehensive income

$ 532    $ 254    $ 857         

 

 

 

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Table of Contents

SCHEDULE I

(Continued)

 

Condensed Financial Information of Registrant

LOEWS CORPORATION

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

Year Ended December 31 2014   2013   2012  

 

 
(In millions)            

Operating Activities:

Net income

$         591         $         595         $         568        

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided (used) by operating activities:

Undistributed losses of affiliates

  95           58           14        

Provision for deferred income taxes

  (62)          (376)          67        

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net:

Receivables

  (2)          (1)          2        

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

  200           511           (42)       

Trading securities

  (269)          (787)          (396)       

Other, net

  (23)          (59)          (13)       

 

 
  530           (59)          200        

 

 

Investing Activities:

Investments in and advances to subsidiaries

  130           (669)          262        

Change in investments, primarily short term

  7           111           (158)       

Other

  (2)          (3)          (10)       

 

 
  135           (561)          94        

 

 

Financing Activities:

Dividends paid

  (95)          (97)          (99)       

Issuance of common stock

  6           5           13        

Purchases of treasury shares

  (622)          (228)          (212)       

Issuance of debt

  983        

Other

  2           1           4        

 

 
  (709)          664           (294)       

 

 

Net change in cash

  (44)          44        

Cash, beginning of year

  44        

 

 

Cash, end of year

$ -         $ 44         $ -        

 

 

 

(a)

Cash dividends paid to the Company by affiliates amounted to $782, $736 and $676 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

 

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SCHEDULE II

LOEWS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

 

Column A

Column B   Column C   Column D   Column E  
      Additions          
  Balance at       Charged to           Charged           Balance at  
  Beginning   Costs and   to Other       End of  
Description of Period   Expenses   Accounts   Deductions   Period  

 

 
(In millions)    
  For the Year Ended December 31, 2014   

Deducted from assets:

Allowance for doubtful accounts

$ 329                $ -              $ -            $ 212            $ 117           

 

 

Total

$ 329                $ -              $ -            $ 212            $ 117           

 

 
  For the Year Ended December 31, 2013   

Deducted from assets:

Allowance for doubtful accounts

$ 213                $ 23              $ 140            $ 47            $ 329           

 

 

Total

$ 213                $ 23              $ 140            $ 47            $ 329           

 

 
  For the Year Ended December 31, 2012   

Deducted from assets:

Allowance for doubtful accounts

$ 241                $ 1              $ 9            $ 38            $ 213           

 

 

Total

$ 241                $ 1              $ 9            $ 38            $ 213           

 

 

 

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SCHEDULE V

LOEWS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Supplemental Information Concerning Property and Casualty Insurance Operations

 

Consolidated Property and Casualty Operations            

 

 
December 31     2014     2013         

 

 
(In millions)            

Deferred acquisition costs

$ 600      $ 624          

Reserves for unpaid claim and claim adjustment expenses

      23,271        24,015          

Discount deducted from claim and claim adjustment expense reserves above (based on interest rates ranging from 3.5% to 8.0%)

  1,578        1,586          

Unearned premiums

  3,592        3,718          
Year Ended December 31 2014     2013   2012         

 

 
(In millions)            

Net written premiums

$     7,088      $ 7,348      $ 6,964          

Net earned premiums

  7,212        7,271        6,881          

Net investment income

  2,031        2,240        2,074          

Incurred claim and claim adjustment expenses related to current year

  5,043        5,113        5,266          

Incurred claim and claim adjustment expenses related to prior years

  (39)       (115)       (180)         

Amortization of deferred acquisition costs

  1,317        1,362        1,274          

Paid claim and claim adjustment expenses

  5,297        5,566        5,257          

 

183