To the extent our insurance subsidiaries determine that underlying factors impacting their assumptions have changed, our insurance subsidiaries make adjustments in their reserves that they consider appropriate for such changes. Accordingly, our insurance subsidiaries’ ultimate liability for unpaid losses and loss expenses will likely differ from the amount recorded at December 31, 2023.
To the extent our insurance subsidiaries determine that underlying factors impacting their assumptions have changed, our insurance subsidiaries make adjustments in their reserves that they consider appropriate for such changes. Accordingly, our insurance subsidiaries’ ultimate liability for unpaid losses and loss expenses will likely differ from the amount recorded at December 31, 2024.
We consider workers’ compensation to be a “long-tail” line of business, in that workers’ compensation claims tend to be settled over a longer time frame than those in the other lines of business of our insurance subsidiaries. The following table presents 2023 and 2022 claim count and payment amount information for workers’ compensation.
We consider workers’ compensation to be a “long-tail” line of business, in that workers’ compensation claims tend to be settled over a longer time frame than those in the other lines of business of our insurance subsidiaries. The following table presents 2024 and 2023 claim count and payment amount information for workers’ compensation.
Our insurance subsidiaries and their affiliates write commercial and personal lines of property and casualty coverages exclusively through a network of independent insurance agents in certain Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, New England, Southern and Southwestern states. The commercial lines products of our insurance subsidiaries consist primarily of commercial automobile, commercial multi-peril and workers’ compensation policies.
Our insurance subsidiaries and their affiliates write commercial and personal lines of property and casualty coverages exclusively through a network of independent insurance agents in certain Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, Southern and Southwestern states. The commercial lines products of our insurance subsidiaries consist primarily of commercial automobile, commercial multi-peril and workers’ compensation policies.
Our insurance subsidiaries do not discount their liabilities for losses and loss expenses. -46- Index Reserve estimates can change over time because of unexpected changes in assumptions related to our insurance subsidiaries’ external environment and, to a lesser extent, assumptions related to our insurance subsidiaries’ internal operations.
Our insurance subsidiaries do not discount their liabilities for losses and loss expenses. -45- Index Reserve estimates can change over time because of unexpected changes in assumptions related to our insurance subsidiaries’ external environment and, to a lesser extent, assumptions related to our insurance subsidiaries’ internal operations.
We calculate our statutory combined ratio as the sum of: • the statutory loss ratio, which is the ratio of calendar-year net incurred losses and loss expenses to net premiums earned; • the statutory expense ratio, which is the ratio of expenses incurred for net commissions, premium taxes and underwriting expenses to net premiums written; and • the statutory dividend ratio, which is the ratio of dividends to holders of workers’ compensation policies to net premiums earned.
We calculate our statutory combined ratio as the sum of: -51- Index • the statutory loss ratio, which is the ratio of calendar-year net incurred losses and loss expenses to net premiums earned; • the statutory expense ratio, which is the ratio of expenses incurred for net commissions, premium taxes and underwriting expenses to net premiums written; and • the statutory dividend ratio, which is the ratio of dividends to holders of workers’ compensation policies to net premiums earned.
At December 31, 2023, we had no outstanding borrowings under our line of credit with M&T and had the ability to borrow up to $20.0 million at interest rates equal to the then-current Term SOFR rate plus 2.11%.
At December 31, 2024, we had no outstanding borrowings under our line of credit with M&T and had the ability to borrow up to $20.0 million at interest rates equal to the then-current Term SOFR rate plus 2.11%.
This ownership provides Donegal Mutual with approximately 71% of the combined voting power of our outstanding shares of Class A common stock and our outstanding shares of Class B common stock. Donegal Mutual and Atlantic States have participated in a proportional reinsurance agreement, or pooling agreement, since 1986.
This ownership provides Donegal Mutual with approximately 70% of the combined voting power of our outstanding shares of Class A common stock and our outstanding shares of Class B common stock. Donegal Mutual and Atlantic States have participated in a proportional reinsurance agreement, or pooling agreement, since 1986.
Our insurance subsidiaries account for inflation in the reserving function through analysis of costs and trends and reviews of historical reserving results. -60- Index Impact of Changing Climate Conditions Insured losses from severe weather events could significantly impact the underwriting results of our insurance subsidiaries.
Our insurance subsidiaries account for inflation in the reserving function through analysis of costs and trends and reviews of historical reserving results. Impact of Changing Climate Conditions Insured losses from severe weather events could significantly impact the underwriting results of our insurance subsidiaries.
The personal lines products of our insurance subsidiaries consist primarily of homeowners and private passenger automobile policies. At December 31, 2023, Donegal Mutual held approximately 44% of our outstanding Class A common stock and approximately 84% of our outstanding Class B common stock.
The personal lines products of our insurance subsidiaries consist primarily of homeowners and private passenger automobile policies. At December 31, 2024, Donegal Mutual held approximately 44% of our outstanding Class A common stock and approximately 84% of our outstanding Class B common stock.
We did not purchase any shares of our Class A common stock under this program during 2023 or 2022. We have purchased a total of 57,658 shares of our Class A common stock under this program from its inception through December 31, 2023.
We did not purchase any shares of our Class A common stock under this program during 2024 or 2023. We have purchased a total of 57,658 shares of our Class A common stock under this program from its inception through December 31, 2024.
The amount of statutory capital and surplus necessary for our insurance subsidiaries to satisfy regulatory requirements, including the RBC requirements, was not significant in relation to our insurance subsidiaries’ statutory capital and surplus at December 31, 2023.
The amount of statutory capital and surplus necessary for our insurance subsidiaries to satisfy regulatory requirements, including the RBC requirements, was not significant in relation to our insurance subsidiaries’ statutory capital and surplus at December 31, 2024.
Impact of New Accounting Standards In September 2016, the FASB issued guidance that amended previous guidance on the impairment of financial instruments by adding an impairment model that requires an entity to recognize expected credit losses as an allowance rather than impairments as credit losses are incurred.
Impact of New Accounting Standards In September 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued guidance that amended previous guidance on the impairment of financial instruments by adding an impairment model that requires an entity to recognize expected credit losses as an allowance rather than impairments as credit losses are incurred.
In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic and related government mandates and restrictions resulted in various changes from historical claims reporting and settlement trends during 2020 and resulted in significant increases in loss costs in 2022 and 2023 due to a number of factors, including supply chain disruption, higher new and used automobile values, increases in the cost of replacement automobile parts and rising labor rates.
In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic and related government mandates and restrictions resulted in various changes from historical claims reporting and settlement trends during 2020 and resulted in significant increases in loss costs in subsequent years due to a number of factors, including supply chain disruption, higher new and used automobile values, increases in the cost of replacement automobile parts and rising labor rates.
Related uncertainties regarding future trends include social inflation, availability and cost of replacement automobile parts and building materials, availability of skilled labor, the rate of plaintiff attorney involvement in claims and the cost of medical technologies and procedures.
Related uncertainties regarding future trends include social inflation, availability and cost of replacement automobile parts and building materials, availability and cost of skilled labor, the rate of specialized plaintiff attorney involvement in claims, plaintiff attorney utilization of litigation financing and the cost of medical technologies and procedures.
For every 1% change in our insurance subsidiaries’ loss and loss expense reserves, net of reinsurance recoverable, the effect on our pre-tax results of operations would be approximately $6.9 million.
For every 1% change in our insurance subsidiaries’ loss and loss expense reserves, net of reinsurance recoverable, the effect on our pre-tax results of operations would be approximately $7.0 million.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements as defined in Item 303(a)(4)(ii) of Regulation S-K. -61- Index
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements as defined in Item 303(a)(4)(ii) of Regulation S-K. -59- Index
The combined ratio represents the sum of the loss ratio, the expense ratio and the dividend ratio, which is the ratio of workers’ compensation policy dividends incurred to premiums earned. We attribute the increase in our combined ratio primarily to the increase in the loss ratio.
The combined ratio represents the sum of the loss ratio, the expense ratio and the dividend ratio, which is the ratio of workers’ compensation policy dividends incurred to premiums earned. We attribute the decrease in our combined ratio primarily to the decreases in the loss and expense ratios.
For the Year Ended December 31, (dollars in thousands) 2023 2022 Number of claims pending, beginning of period 3,366 3,336 Number of claims reported 5,928 6,683 Number of claims settled or dismissed 6,150 6,653 Number of claims pending, end of period 3,144 3,366 Losses paid $ 54,336 $ 55,809 Loss expenses paid $ 12,292 12,062 Management Evaluation of Operating Results Despite challenging insurance market conditions and increasing property and casualty loss severity trends that affected our results in recent years, we believe that our focused business strategy, including our insurance subsidiaries’ ongoing implementation of premium rate increases and refinements to their underwriting practices, have positioned us well for 2024 and beyond.
For the Year Ended December 31, (dollars in thousands) 2024 2023 Number of claims pending, beginning of period 3,144 3,366 Number of claims reported 5,066 5,928 Number of claims settled or dismissed 5,378 6,150 Number of claims pending, end of period 2,832 3,144 Losses paid $ 54,597 $ 54,336 Loss expenses paid $ 10,953 $ 12,292 Management Evaluation of Operating Results Despite challenging insurance market conditions and increasing property and casualty loss severity trends that affected our results in recent years, we believe that our focused business strategy, including our insurance subsidiaries’ ongoing implementation of premium rate increases and refinements to their underwriting practices, have positioned us well for 2025 and beyond.
Our fixed maturity investments consisted of high-quality marketable bonds, of which 95.2% were rated at investment-grade levels at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. At December 31, 2023, the net unrealized loss on our available-for-sale fixed maturity investments, net of deferred taxes, amounted to $31.9 million, compared to a net unrealized loss of $38.0 million at December 31, 2022.
Our fixed maturity investments consisted of high-quality marketable bonds, of which 95.6% and 95.2% were rated at investment-grade levels at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. At December 31, 2024, the net unrealized loss on our available-for-sale fixed maturity investments, net of deferred taxes, amounted to $27.4 million, compared to $31.9 million at December 31, 2023.
While these trend changes have begun to normalize, they caused significant disruption to historical loss patterns and give rise to greater uncertainty as to the pattern of future loss settlements.
These trend changes caused significant disruption to historical loss patterns and give rise to greater uncertainty as to the pattern of future loss settlements.
Our insurance subsidiaries recognized a decrease in their liability for losses and loss expenses of prior years of $16.7 million, $44.8 million and $31.2 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Our insurance subsidiaries recognized a decrease in their liability for losses and loss expenses of prior years of $15.0 million, $16.7 million and $44.8 million in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Differences between our GAAP loss ratio and our statutory loss ratio result from anticipating salvage and subrogation recoveries for our GAAP loss ratio but not for our statutory loss ratio. -52- Index The following table presents comparative details with respect to our GAAP and statutory combined ratios for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021: Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 GAAP Combined Ratios (Total Lines) Loss ratio - core losses 57.5 % 59.8 % 59.4 % Loss ratio - weather-related losses 8.3 7.7 5.8 Loss ratio - large fire losses 5.2 6.5 5.9 Loss ratio - net prior-year reserve development -1.9 -5.4 -4.0 Loss ratio 69.1 68.6 67.1 Expense ratio 34.7 34.1 33.3 Dividend ratio 0.6 0.6 0.6 Combined ratio 104.4 % 103.3 % 101.0 % Statutory Combined Ratios Commercial lines: Automobile 97.3 % 98.0 % 108.6 % Workers’ compensation 96.6 97.3 94.6 Commercial multi-peril 112.3 116.9 114.1 Other 85.5 80.8 77.5 Total commercial lines 101.6 103.7 104.9 Personal lines: Automobile 109.7 103.8 94.4 Homeowners 108.6 111.0 102.9 Other 75.8 52.1 49.3 Total personal lines 108.2 102.8 94.4 Total commercial and personal lines 104.2 103.3 100.8 -53- Index Results of Operations YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2023 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2022 Net Premiums Earned Our insurance subsidiaries’ net premiums earned increased to $882.1 million for 2023, an increase of $59.6 million, or 7.2%, compared to 2022, primarily reflecting solid premium retention and renewal premium increases.
The following table presents comparative details with respect to our GAAP and statutory combined ratios for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022: Year Ended December 31, 2024 2023 2022 GAAP Combined Ratios (Total Lines) Loss ratio - core losses 54.0 % 57.5 % 59.8 % Loss ratio - weather-related losses 7.2 8.3 7.7 Loss ratio - large fire losses 4.9 5.2 6.5 Loss ratio - net prior-year reserve development -1.6 -1.9 -5.4 Loss ratio 64.5 69.1 68.6 Expense ratio 33.7 34.7 34.1 Dividend ratio 0.4 0.6 0.6 Combined ratio 98.6 % 104.4 % 103.3 % Statutory Combined Ratios Commercial lines: Automobile 102.6 % 97.3 % 98.0 % Workers’ compensation 104.4 96.6 97.3 Commercial multi-peril 95.0 112.3 116.9 Other 80.0 85.5 80.8 Total commercial lines 98.2 101.6 103.7 Personal lines: Automobile 97.4 109.7 103.8 Homeowners 99.6 108.6 111.0 Other 99.5 75.8 52.1 Total personal lines 98.3 108.2 102.8 Total commercial and personal lines 98.3 104.2 103.3 Results of Operations YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2024 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2023 Net Premiums Earned Our insurance subsidiaries’ net premiums earned increased to $936.7 million for 2024, an increase of $54.6 million, or 6.2%, compared to 2023, primarily reflecting solid premium retention and renewal premium increases.
We had 27.1 million and 25.8 million Class A shares outstanding at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. We had 5.6 million Class B shares outstanding for both periods. There are no outstanding securities that dilute our shares of Class B common stock.
We had 30.0 million and 27.8 million Class A shares outstanding at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. We had 5.6 million Class B shares outstanding for both periods. There are no outstanding securities that dilute our shares of Class B common stock.
Such disclosure did not stipulate a maximum number of shares that may be purchased under this program. Donegal Mutual purchased 516,620 and 1,035,778 shares of our Class A common stock during 2023 and 2022, respectively. Donegal Mutual did not purchase any shares of our Class B common stock during 2023.
Such disclosure did not stipulate a maximum number of shares that may be purchased under this program. Donegal Mutual purchased 1,057,282 and 516,620 shares of our Class A common stock during 2024 and 2023, respectively.
However, on the basis of our insurance subsidiaries’ internal procedures, which analyze, among other things, their prior assumptions, their experience with similar cases and historical trends such as reserving patterns, loss payments, pending levels of unpaid claims and product mix, as well as court decisions, economic conditions and public attitudes, we believe that our insurance subsidiaries have made adequate provision for their liability for losses and loss expenses.
However, on the basis of our insurance subsidiaries’ internal procedures, which analyze, among other things, their prior assumptions, their experience with similar cases and historical trends such as reserving patterns, loss payments, pending levels of unpaid claims and product mix, as well as court decisions, economic conditions and public attitudes, we believe that our insurance subsidiaries have made adequate provision for their liability for losses and loss expenses. -46- Index Atlantic States’ participation in the underwriting pool with Donegal Mutual exposes Atlantic States to adverse loss development on the business that Donegal Mutual contributes to the underwriting pool.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the actuaries developed a range from a low of $651.1 million to a high of $728.7 million and selected a point estimate of $689.1 million. The actuaries’ range of estimates for commercial lines in 2023 was $507.2 million to $565.4 million, and the actuaries selected a point estimate of $535.7 million.
The actuaries’ range of estimates for personal lines in 2024 was $139.1 million to $153.0 million, and the actuaries selected a point estimate of $146.2 million. For the year ended December 31, 2023, the actuaries developed a range from a low of $651.1 million to a high of $728.7 million and selected a point estimate of $689.1 million.
Because the policies of our insurance subsidiaries renew not less frequently than annually, our insurance subsidiaries have the ability to respond to the impact of changing climate conditions through adjustments to their underwriting standards, pricing, and policy terms and conditions, subject to applicable regulatory approvals.
Because the policies of our insurance subsidiaries renew not less frequently than annually, our insurance subsidiaries have the ability to respond to the impact of changing climate conditions through adjustments to their underwriting standards, pricing, and policy terms and conditions, subject to applicable regulatory approvals. -58- Index Changing climate conditions could lead to new or revised regulations with which our insurance subsidiaries would have to comply.
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2022 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021 Net Premiums Earned Our insurance subsidiaries’ net premiums earned increased to $822.5 million for 2022, an increase of $46.5 million, or 6.0%, compared to 2021, primarily reflecting solid premium retention and renewal premium increases.
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2023 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2022 Net Premiums Earned Our insurance subsidiaries’ net premiums earned increased to $882.1 million for 2023, an increase of $59.6 million, or 7.2%, compared to 2022, primarily reflecting solid premium retention and renewal premium increases.
The following table sets forth the effect on our insurance subsidiaries’ loss and loss expense reserves and our stockholders’ equity in the event of reasonably likely changes in the variables considered in establishing loss and loss expense reserves: Change in Loss and Loss Expense Reserves Net of Reinsurance Adjusted Loss and Loss Expense Reserves Net of Reinsurance at December 31, 2023 Percentage Change in Equity at December 31, 2023(1) Adjusted Loss and Loss Expense Reserves Net of Reinsurance at December 31, 2022 Percentage Change in Equity at December 31, 2022(1) (dollars in thousands) -10.0% $620,229 11.3% $602,876 10.9% -7.5 637,457 8.5 619,622 8.2 -5.0 654,686 5.7 636,369 5.5 -2.5 671,914 2.8 653,115 2.7 Base 689,143 — 669,862 — 2.5 706,372 -2.8 686,609 -2.7 5.0 723,600 -5.7 703,355 -5.5 7.5 740,829 -8.5 720,102 -8.2 10.0 758,057 -11.3 736,848 -10.9 (1) Net of income tax effect. -49- Index Our insurance subsidiaries base their reserves for unpaid losses and loss expenses on current trends in loss and loss expense development and reflect their best estimates for future amounts needed to pay losses and loss expenses with respect to incurred events currently known to them plus incurred but not reported (“IBNR”) claims.
The following table sets forth the effect on our insurance subsidiaries’ loss and loss expense reserves and our stockholders’ equity in the event of reasonably likely changes in the variables considered in establishing loss and loss expense reserves: Change in Loss and Loss Expense Reserves Net of Reinsurance Adjusted Loss and Loss Expense Reserves Net of Reinsurance at December 31, 2024 Percentage Change in Equity at December 31, 2024(1) Adjusted Loss and Loss Expense Reserves Net of Reinsurance at December 31, 2023 Percentage Change in Equity at December 31, 2023(1) (dollars in thousands) -10.0% $633,928 10.2% $620,229 11.3% -7.5 651,537 7.6 637,457 8.5 -5.0 669,146 5.1 654,686 5.7 -2.5 686,755 2.5 671,914 2.8 Base 704,364 — 689,143 — 2.5 721,973 -2.5 706,372 -2.8 5.0 739,582 -5.1 723,600 -5.7 7.5 757,191 -7.6 740,829 -8.5 10.0 774,800 -10.2 758,057 -11.3 (1) Net of income tax effect. -48- Index Our insurance subsidiaries base their reserves for unpaid losses and loss expenses on current trends in loss and loss expense development and reflect their best estimates for future amounts needed to pay losses and loss expenses with respect to incurred events currently known to them plus incurred but not reported (“IBNR”) claims.
Since the predominant percentage of the business of Atlantic States and Donegal Mutual is pooled and the results shared by each company according to its participation level under the terms of the pooling agreement, the intent of the underwriting pool is to produce a more uniform and stable underwriting result from year to year for each company than either would experience individually and to spread the risk of loss between the companies. -48- Index Our insurance subsidiaries’ liability for losses and loss expenses by major line of business at December 31, 2023 and 2022 consisted of the following: 2023 2022 (in thousands) Commercial lines: Automobile $ 168,749 $ 174,833 Workers’ compensation 122,473 120,539 Commercial multi-peril 217,292 203,567 Other 27,167 23,071 Total commercial lines 535,681 522,010 Personal lines: Automobile 112,509 108,715 Homeowners 28,001 28,481 Other 12,952 10,656 Total personal lines 153,462 147,852 Total commercial and personal lines 689,143 669,862 Plus reinsurance recoverable 437,014 451,184 Total liability for losses and loss expenses $ 1,126,157 $ 1,121,046 We have evaluated the effect on our insurance subsidiaries’ loss and loss expense reserves and our stockholders’ equity in the event of reasonably likely changes in the variables we consider in establishing loss and loss expense reserves.
Since the predominant percentage of the business of Atlantic States and Donegal Mutual is pooled and the results shared by each company according to its participation level under the terms of the pooling agreement, the intent of the underwriting pool is to produce a more uniform and stable underwriting result from year to year for each company than either would experience individually and to spread the risk of loss between the companies. -47- Index Our insurance subsidiaries’ liability for losses and loss expenses by major line of business at December 31, 2024 and 2023 consisted of the following: 2024 2023 (in thousands) Commercial lines: Automobile $ 180,757 $ 168,749 Workers’ compensation 129,406 122,473 Commercial multi-peril 208,676 217,292 Other 39,336 27,167 Total commercial lines 558,175 535,681 Personal lines: Automobile 116,693 112,509 Homeowners 26,591 28,001 Other 2,905 12,952 Total personal lines 146,189 153,462 Total commercial and personal lines 704,364 689,143 Plus reinsurance recoverable 416,621 437,014 Total liability for losses and loss expenses $ 1,120,985 $ 1,126,157 We have evaluated the effect on our insurance subsidiaries’ loss and loss expense reserves and our stockholders’ equity in the event of reasonably likely changes in the variables we consider in establishing loss and loss expense reserves.
Donegal Mutual purchased 54,231 shares of our Class B common stock during 2022. Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates We combine our financial statements with those of our insurance subsidiaries and present them on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP.
Donegal Mutual did not purchase any shares of our Class B common stock during 2024 or 2023. -44- Index Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates We combine our financial statements with those of our insurance subsidiaries and present them on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP.
Beginning with policies effective in 2021, Donegal Mutual began to place the business of the Mountain States Insurance Group into the underwriting pool. -45- Index In July 2013, our board of directors authorized a share repurchase program pursuant to which we have the authority to purchase up to 500,000 additional shares of our Class A common stock at prices prevailing from time to time in the open market subject to the provisions of the SEC Rule 10b-18 and in privately negotiated transactions.
In July 2013, our board of directors authorized a share repurchase program pursuant to which we have the authority to purchase up to 500,000 additional shares of our Class A common stock at prices prevailing from time to time in the open market subject to the provisions of the SEC Rule 10b-18 and in privately negotiated transactions.
The majority of the 2021 development related to decreases in the liability for losses and loss expenses of prior years for Atlantic States and MICO. -47- Index Excluding the impact of severe weather events and the COVID-19 pandemic, our insurance subsidiaries have noted stable amounts in the number of claims incurred and the number of claims outstanding at period ends relative to their premium base in recent years across most of their lines of business.
Excluding the impact of severe weather events and the COVID-19 pandemic, our insurance subsidiaries have noted stable amounts in the number of claims incurred and the number of claims outstanding at period ends relative to their premium base in recent years across most of their lines of business.
Because our insurance subsidiaries do not prepare GAAP financial statements, we evaluate the performance of our commercial lines and personal lines segments utilizing statutory accounting practices (“SAP”), which include financial measures that reflect the growth trends and underwriting results of our insurance subsidiaries. -50- Index We use the following financial data to monitor and evaluate our operating results: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2023 2022 2021 Net premiums written: Commercial lines: Automobile $ 174,741 $ 167,774 $ 161,947 Workers’ compensation 107,598 111,892 113,256 Commercial multi-peril 195,632 200,045 188,242 Other 50,458 51,135 49,229 Total commercial lines 528,429 530,846 512,674 Personal lines: Automobile 215,957 181,129 170,578 Homeowners 139,688 120,087 109,974 Other 11,623 11,468 11,041 Total personal lines 367,268 312,684 291,593 Total net premiums written $ 895,697 $ 843,530 $ 804,267 Components of combined ratio: Loss ratio 69.1 % 68.6 % 67.1 % Expense ratio 34.7 34.1 33.3 Dividend ratio 0.6 0.6 0.6 Combined ratio 104.4 % 103.3 % 101.0 % Revenues: Net premiums earned: Commercial lines $ 533,029 $ 521,227 $ 478,966 Personal lines 349,042 301,263 297,049 Total net premiums earned 882,071 822,490 776,015 Net investment income 40,853 34,016 31,126 Investment gains (losses) 3,173 (10,185 ) 6,477 Other 1,241 1,900 2,848 Total revenues $ 927,338 $ 848,221 $ 816,466 Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2023 2022 2021 Components of net income (loss): Underwriting (loss) income: Commercial lines $ (6,998 ) $ (22,665 ) $ (35,174 ) Personal lines (35,118 ) (13,506 ) 17,235 SAP underwriting loss (42,116 ) (36,171 ) (17,939 ) GAAP adjustments 3,735 8,667 9,945 GAAP underwriting loss (38,381 ) (27,504 ) (7,994 ) Net investment income 40,853 34,016 31,126 Investment gains (losses) 3,173 (10,185 ) 6,477 Other (582 ) 35 730 Income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit) 5,063 (3,638 ) 30,339 Income tax expense (benefit) 637 (1,679 ) 5,085 Net income (loss) $ 4,426 $ (1,959 ) $ 25,254 -51- Index Non-GAAP Information We prepare our consolidated financial statements on the basis of GAAP.
Because our insurance subsidiaries do not prepare GAAP financial statements, we evaluate the performance of our commercial lines and personal lines segments utilizing statutory accounting practices (“SAP”), which include financial measures that reflect the growth trends and underwriting results of our insurance subsidiaries. -49- Index We use the following financial data to monitor and evaluate our operating results: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2024 2023 2022 Net premiums written: Commercial lines: Automobile $ 184,989 $ 174,741 $ 167,774 Workers’ compensation 103,533 107,598 111,892 Commercial multi-peril 213,959 195,632 200,045 Other 45,439 50,458 51,135 Total commercial lines 547,920 528,429 530,846 Personal lines: Automobile 243,036 215,957 181,129 Homeowners 140,613 139,688 120,087 Other 10,712 11,623 11,468 Total personal lines 394,361 367,268 312,684 Total net premiums written $ 942,281 $ 895,697 $ 843,530 Components of combined ratio: Loss ratio 64.5 % 69.1 % 68.6 % Expense ratio 33.7 34.7 34.1 Dividend ratio 0.4 0.6 0.6 Combined ratio 98.6 % 104.4 % 103.3 % Revenues: Net premiums earned: Commercial lines $ 539,683 $ 533,029 $ 521,227 Personal lines 396,968 349,042 301,263 Total net premiums earned 936,651 882,071 822,490 Net investment income 44,918 40,853 34,016 Investment gains (losses) 4,981 3,173 (10,185 ) Other 3,055 1,241 1,900 Total revenues $ 989,605 $ 927,338 $ 848,221 Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2024 2023 2022 Components of net income (loss): Underwriting income (loss): Commercial lines $ 5,826 $ (6,998 ) $ (22,665 ) Personal lines 5,739 (35,118 ) (13,506 ) SAP underwriting income (loss) 11,565 (42,116 ) (36,171 ) GAAP adjustments 1,331 3,735 8,667 GAAP underwriting income (loss) 12,896 (38,381 ) (27,504 ) Net investment income 44,918 40,853 34,016 Investment gains (losses) 4,981 3,173 (10,185 ) Other (456 ) (582 ) 35 Income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit) 62,339 5,063 (3,638 ) Income tax expense (benefit) 11,477 637 (1,679 ) Net income (loss) $ 50,862 $ 4,426 $ (1,959 ) -50- Index Non-GAAP Information We prepare our consolidated financial statements on the basis of GAAP.
The favorable loss reserve development in 2022 resulted primarily from lower-than-expected loss emergence in the personal automobile and commercial automobile lines of business for accident years prior to 2022.
The favorable loss reserve development in 2024 resulted primarily from lower-than-expected loss emergence in the commercial multi-peril, personal automobile and homeowner lines of business, offset partially by higher-than-expected loss emergence in the workers’ compensation and commercial automobile lines of business, for accident years prior to 2024.
Policyholder Dividends Our insurance subsidiaries pay policyholder dividends primarily on workers’ compensation policies on a sliding scale based on the profitability of a given policy. Combined Ratio Our insurance subsidiaries’ combined ratio was 103.3% and 101.0% for 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Policyholder Dividends Our insurance subsidiaries pay policyholder dividends primarily on workers’ compensation policies on a sliding scale based on the profitability of a given policy. Combined Ratio Our insurance subsidiaries’ combined ratio was 98.6% and 104.4% for 2024 and 2023, respectively.
The 2021 development represented 5.6% of the December 31, 2020 net carried reserves and resulted primarily from lower-than-expected loss emergence in the personal automobile, workers’ compensation and commercial automobile lines of business for accident years prior to 2021.
The 2024 development represented 2.2% of the December 31, 2023 net carried reserves and resulted primarily from lower-than-expected loss emergence in the commercial multi-peril, personal automobile and homeowner lines of business, offset partially by higher-than-expected loss emergence in the workers’ compensation and commercial automobile lines of business, for accident years prior to 2024.
We attribute the increase in commercial lines net premiums written primarily to modest new business writings, strong premium retention and a continuation of renewal premium increases in lines other than workers’ compensation, offset partially by planned attrition in regions we have targeted for profit improvement. Personal lines net premiums written increased $21.3 million, or 7.0%, for 2022 compared to 2021.
We attribute the increase in commercial lines net premiums written primarily to strong premium retention and a continuation of renewal premium increases in lines other than workers’ compensation, offset partially by planned attrition in states we exited or classes of business we have targeted for profit improvement.
However, the amount of the average claim outstanding has increased gradually over the past several years due to various factors such as increased property and automobile repair and replacement costs, rising medical loss costs and increased litigation trends. We have also experienced a general slowing of settlement rates in litigated claims.
However, the amount of the average claim outstanding has increased gradually over the past several years due to various factors such as increased property and automobile repair and replacement costs, rising medical loss costs and increased litigation trends and lengthening of repair completion times for property and automobile claims.
Our insurance subsidiaries earn premiums and recognize them as income over the terms of the policies they issue. Such terms are generally one year or less in duration. Therefore, increases or decreases in net premiums earned generally reflect increases or decreases in net premiums written in the preceding twelve-month period compared to the same period one year earlier.
Our insurance subsidiaries earn premiums and recognize them as income over the terms of the policies they issue. Such terms are generally one year or less in duration.
We discuss in Note 9 – Borrowings our estimate of the timing of the amounts payable for the borrowings under our lines of credit based on their contractual maturities. -59- Index We estimate the timing of claim payments associated with the liabilities for losses and loss expenses of our insurance subsidiaries based on historical experience and expectations of future payment patterns.
We estimate the timing of claim payments associated with the liabilities for losses and loss expenses of our insurance subsidiaries based on historical experience and expectations of future payment patterns.
Our insurance subsidiaries experienced favorable loss reserve development of approximately $44.8 million, or 5.4 percentage points of the loss ratio, during 2022 in their reserves for prior accident years, compared to approximately $31.2 million, or 4.0 percentage points of the loss ratio, during 2021.
Our insurance subsidiaries experienced favorable loss reserve development of approximately $15.0 million, or 1.6 percentage points of the loss ratio, during 2024 in their reserves for prior accident years, compared to approximately $16.7 million, or 1.9 percentage points of the loss ratio, during 2023.
December 31, 2023 2022 Percent of Percent of (dollars in thousands) Amount Total Amount Total Fixed maturities: Total held to maturity $ 679,497 51.2 % $ 688,439 52.8 % Total available for sale 589,348 44.4 523,792 40.1 Total fixed maturities 1,268,845 95.6 1,212,231 92.9 Equity securities 25,903 2.0 35,105 2.7 Short-term investments 32,306 2.4 57,321 4.4 Total investments $ 1,327,054 100.0 % $ 1,304,657 100.0 % The carrying value of our fixed maturity investments represented 95.6% and 92.9% of our total invested assets at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
December 31, 2024 2023 Percent of Percent of (dollars in thousands) Amount Total Amount Total Fixed maturities: Total held to maturity $ 705,714 51.0 % $ 679,497 51.2 % Total available for sale 617,892 44.6 589,348 44.4 Total fixed maturities 1,323,606 95.6 1,268,845 95.6 Equity securities 36,808 2.6 25,903 2.0 Short-term investments 24,558 1.8 32,306 2.4 Total investments $ 1,384,972 100.0 % $ 1,327,054 100.0 % The carrying value of our fixed maturity investments represented 95.6% of our total invested assets at December 31, 2024 and 2023.
Atlantic States’ participation in the pool with Donegal Mutual exposes Atlantic States to adverse loss development on the business of Donegal Mutual that the pool includes. However, pooled business represents the predominant percentage of the net underwriting activity of both companies, and Donegal Mutual and Atlantic States share proportionately any adverse risk development relating to the pooled business.
However, pooled business represents the predominant percentage of the net underwriting activity of both companies, and Donegal Mutual and Atlantic States share proportionately any adverse risk development relating to the pooled business. The business in the underwriting pool is homogeneous and each company has a pro-rata share of the entire underwriting pool.
Weather-related losses of $63.5 million, or 7.7 percentage points of the loss ratio, for 2022 increased from $45.3 million, or 5.8 percentage points of the loss ratio, for 2021, with the increase primarily impacting the commercial multi-peril line of business.
Weather-related losses of $67.7 million, or 7.2 percentage points of the loss ratio, for 2024 increased from $72.9 million, or 8.3 percentage points of the loss ratio, for 2023, with the decrease primarily impacting the commercial multi-peril and homeowners lines of business.
Financial Condition Liquidity and Capital Resources Liquidity is a measure of an entity’s ability to secure enough cash to meet its contractual obligations and operating needs as they arise. Our major sources of funds from operations are the net cash flows generated from our insurance subsidiaries’ underwriting results, investment income and maturing investments.
Financial Condition Liquidity and Capital Resources Liquidity is a measure of an entity’s ability to secure enough cash to meet its contractual obligations and operating needs as they arise.
The actuaries’ range of estimates for commercial lines in 2022 was $486.4 million to $560.5 million, and the actuaries selected a point estimate of $522.0 million. The actuaries’ range of estimates for personal lines in 2022 was $135.2 million to $161.1 million, and the actuaries selected a point estimate of $147.9 million.
The actuaries’ range of estimates for commercial lines in 2023 was $507.2 million to $565.4 million, and the actuaries selected a point estimate of $535.7 million. The actuaries’ range of estimates for personal lines in 2023 was $144.0 million to $163.3 million, and the actuaries selected a point estimate of $153.5 million.
Our insurance subsidiaries could have to make further adjustments to their estimates in the future.
We have also experienced a general slowing of settlement rates in litigated claims. Our insurance subsidiaries could have to make further adjustments to their estimates in the future.
The actuaries’ range of estimates for personal lines in 2023 was $144.0 million to $163.3 million, and the actuaries selected a point estimate of $153.5 million. For the year ended December 31, 2022, the actuaries developed a range from a low of $621.6 million to a high of $721.6 million and selected a point estimate of $669.9 million.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, the actuaries developed a range from a low of $672.1 million to a high of $740.4 million and selected a point estimate of $704.4 million. The actuaries’ range of estimates for commercial lines in 2024 was $533.0 million to $587.5 million, and the actuaries selected a point estimate of $558.2 million.
We structure our fixed-maturity investment portfolio following a “laddering” approach so that projected cash flows from investment income and principal maturities are evenly distributed from a timing perspective. This laddering approach provides an additional measure of liquidity to meet our obligations and the obligations of our insurance subsidiaries should an unexpected variation occur in the future.
We maintain a high degree of liquidity in our investment portfolio in the form of marketable fixed maturities, equity securities and short-term investments. We structure our fixed-maturity investment portfolio following a “laddering” approach so that projected cash flows from investment income and principal maturities are evenly distributed from a timing perspective.
Net (Loss) Income and (Loss) Earnings Per Share Our net loss for 2022 was $2.0 million, or $.06 per share of Class A common stock and $.07 per share of Class B common stock, compared to net income for 2021 of $25.3 million, or $0.83 per share of Class A common stock on a diluted basis and $0.74 per share of Class B common stock.
Net Income and Earnings Per Share Our net income for 2024 was $50.9 million, or $1.53 per share of Class A common stock on a diluted basis and $1.38 per share of Class B common stock, compared to $4.4 million, or $0.14 per share of Class A common stock on a diluted basis and $0.11 per share of Class B common stock, for 2023.
We have historically generated sufficient net positive cash flow from our operations to fund our commitments and build our investment portfolio, thereby increasing future investment returns. The pooling agreement with Donegal Mutual historically has been cash flow positive because of the profitability of the underwriting pool.
Our major sources of funds from operations are the net cash flows generated from our insurance subsidiaries’ underwriting results, investment income and maturing investments. -56- Index We have historically generated sufficient net positive cash flow from our operations to fund our commitments and build our investment portfolio, thereby increasing future investment returns.
Large fire losses, which we define as individual fire losses in excess of $50,000, were $53.5 million, or 6.5 percentage points of the loss ratio, for 2022, compared to $45.6 million, or 5.9 percentage points of the loss ratio, for 2021.
Large fire losses, which we define as individual fire losses in excess of $50,000, were $45.8 million, or 4.9 percentage points of the loss ratio, for 2024, compared to $45.4 million, or 5.2 percentage points of the loss ratio, for 2023. -53- Index Underwriting Expenses Our insurance subsidiaries’ expense ratio, which is the ratio of policy acquisition and other underwriting expenses to premiums earned, was 33.7% for 2024, compared to 34.7% for 2023.
At December 31, 2023, Atlantic States had a $35.0 million outstanding advance with the FHLB of Pittsburgh that carries a fixed interest rate of 1.74% and is due in August 2024.
At December 31, 2024, Atlantic States had a $35.0 million outstanding advance with the FHLB of Pittsburgh that carries a fixed interest rate of 3.806% and is due in September 2026. We discuss in Note 9 – Borrowings our estimate of the timing of the amounts payable for the borrowings under our lines of credit based on their contractual maturities.
Amounts available for distribution to us as dividends from our insurance subsidiaries without prior approval of insurance regulatory authorities in 2024 are approximately $27.4 million from Atlantic States, $7.2 million from MICO and $5.0 million from Peninsula, or a total of approximately $39.6 million.
Amounts available for distribution to us as dividends from our insurance subsidiaries without prior approval of insurance regulatory authorities in 2025 are approximately $40.7 million from Atlantic States, $7.8 million from MICO and $4.7 million from Peninsula, or a total of approximately $53.3 million. -57- Index Investments At December 31, 2024 and 2023, our investment portfolio of primarily investment-grade bonds, common stock, short-term investments and cash totaled $1.4 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively, representing 61.6% and 58.6%, respectively, of our total assets.
The cash dividends we declared to our stockholders totaled $22.2 million, $20.9 million and $19.6 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. There are no regulatory restrictions on our payment of dividends to our stockholders, although there are restrictions under applicable state laws on the payment of dividends from our insurance subsidiaries to us.
There are no regulatory restrictions on our payment of dividends to our stockholders, although there are restrictions under applicable state laws on the payment of dividends from our insurance subsidiaries to us, which is a significant source of cash for payment of stockholder dividends by us.
Net Premiums Written Our insurance subsidiaries’ 2022 net premiums written increased 4.9% to $843.5 million, compared to $804.3 million for 2021. Commercial lines net premiums written increased $18.0 million, or 3.6%, for 2022 compared to 2021.
Commercial lines net premiums written increased $19.5 million, or 3.7%, for 2024 compared to 2023.
We did not recognize any impairment losses during 2022 or 2021. -57- Index Losses and Loss Expenses Our insurance subsidiaries’ loss ratio, which is the ratio of incurred losses and loss expenses to premiums earned, was 68.6% for 2022, compared to 67.1% for 2021.
Losses and Loss Expenses Our insurance subsidiaries’ loss ratio, which is the ratio of incurred losses and loss expenses to premiums earned, was 64.5% for 2024, compared to 69.1% for 2023. Our insurance subsidiaries’ commercial lines loss ratio decreased to 62.0% for 2024, compared to 64.8% for 2023.
Interest Expense Our interest expense for 2022 decreased to $620,558, compared to $895,605 for 2021. We attribute the decrease to lower average borrowings under our lines of credit during 2022 compared to 2021. -58- Index Income Taxes Our income tax benefit was $1.7 million for 2022, compared to income tax expense of $5.1 million for 2021.
Interest Expense Our interest expense for 2024 increased to $946,020, compared to $619,813 for 2023. We attribute the increase to higher interest rates on borrowings under our lines of credit during 2024 compared to 2023. Income Taxes Our income tax expense was $11.5 million for 2024, compared to $637,972 for 2023.
Because we settle the pool monthly, our cash flows are substantially similar to the cash flows that would result from the underwriting of direct business. We maintain a high degree of liquidity in our investment portfolio in the form of marketable fixed maturities, equity securities and short-term investments.
The pooling agreement with Donegal Mutual historically has been cash flow positive because of the profitability of the underwriting pool. Because we settle the pool monthly, our cash flows are substantially similar to the cash flows that would result from the underwriting of direct business.
The increase in technology systems-related expenses for 2022 was primarily due to an increased allocation of costs from Donegal Mutual to our insurance subsidiaries following the successful implementation of the second phase of our ongoing systems modernization project in August 2021.
These impacts were offset partially by an increase in underwriting-based incentive costs as well as higher technology systems-related expenses that were primarily due to increased costs related to our ongoing systems modernization project, a portion of which Donegal Mutual Insurance Company allocates to our insurance subsidiaries.
We attribute the increase in personal lines net premiums written primarily to renewal premium increases, strong policy retention and new business writings in certain states where we have introduced an updated suite of products. -56- Index Investment Income For 2022, our net investment income increased 9.3% to $34.0 million, compared to $31.1 million for 2021, due primarily to higher average reinvestment yields and higher average invested assets for 2022 compared to 2021.
Personal lines net premiums written increased $27.1 million, or 7.4%, for 2024 compared to 2023. We attribute the increase in personal lines net premiums written primarily to renewal premium rate increases and solid policy retention, offset partially by planned attrition due to non-renewal actions and lower new business writings.
Net cash flows provided by operating activities in 2023, 2022 and 2021 were $28.6 million, $67.1 million and $76.7 million, respectively. The decrease in net cash flows provided by operating activities for 2023 was primarily related to higher cash outflows for claim payments compared to 2022 and 2021.
This laddering approach provides an additional measure of liquidity to meet our obligations and the obligations of our insurance subsidiaries should an unexpected variation occur in the future. Net cash flows provided by operating activities in 2024, 2023 and 2022 were $67.4 million, $28.6 million and $67.1 million, respectively.
Our insurance subsidiaries’ commercial lines loss ratio decreased to 67.1% for 2022, compared to 68.6% for 2021. This decrease resulted primarily from the commercial automobile loss ratio decreasing to 64.2% for 2022, compared to 75.0% for 2021. The personal lines loss ratio increased to 71.0% for 2022, compared to 64.8% for 2021.
The commercial automobile loss ratio increased to 68.5% for 2024, compared to 63.0% for 2023. The workers’ compensation loss ratio increased to 67.7% for 2024, compared to 59.0% for 2023. The personal lines loss ratio decreased to 68.0% for 2024, compared to 75.6% for 2023, due primarily to increases in net premiums earned related to premium rate increases.
Therefore, the underwriting profitability of the business the individual companies write directly will vary.
Distinctions within the products of Donegal Mutual and our insurance subsidiaries generally allow the individual companies to manage certain risk segments through variations in coverage, terms and pricing. Therefore, the underwriting profitability of the business the individual companies write directly will vary.
Our effective tax rate for 2021 was 16.8%.
Our effective tax rate for 2024 and 2023 was 18.4% and 12.6%, respectively.