Any loan that later becomes delinquent is evaluated by the Company at that time and any impairment is adjusted accordingly. Determining fair value . Cost for loans held for sale is equal to the amount paid to the warehouse bank and the amount originally funded by the Company.
Any loan that later becomes delinquent is evaluated by the Company at that time and any impairment is adjusted accordingly. Determining fair value . The cost for loans held for sale is equal to the amount paid to the warehouse bank and the amount originally funded by the Company.
For nonparticipating traditional life products, these costs are amortized over the premium paying period of the related policies in proportion to the ratio of annual premium revenues to total anticipated premium revenues.
For nonparticipating traditional life products, these costs are amortized over the premium paying period of the related policies in proportion to the ratio of annual premium revenues to total anticipated premium revenues.
Once purchase commitments have expired and other alternatives to remedy are exhausted, which could be earlier than the six-month time period, the loans are repurchased and transferred to mortgage loans held for investment at the lower of cost or fair value and the previously recorded sales revenue that was to be received from a third-party investor is written off against the loan loss reserve.
Once purchase commitments have expired and other alternatives to remedy are exhausted, which could be earlier than the six-month period, the loans are repurchased and transferred to mortgage loans held for investment at the lower of cost or fair value and the previously recorded sales revenue that was to be received from a third-party investor is written off against the loan loss reserve.
Revenues and costs for at-need sales are recorded when a valid contract exists, the services are performed, collection is reasonably assured, and there are no significant company obligations remaining. 22 Mortgage Operations Mortgage fee income consists of origination fees, processing fees, interest income and certain other income related to the origination and sale of mortgage loans.
Revenues and costs for at-need sales are recorded when a valid contract exists, the services are performed, collection is reasonably assured, and there are no significant company obligations remaining. Mortgage Operations Mortgage fee income consists of origination fees, processing fees, interest income and certain other income related to the origination and sale of mortgage loans.
The Company will rent the properties until it is deemed desirable to sell them. The mortgage loan loss reserve is an estimate of probable losses at the balance sheet date that the Company will realize in the future on mortgage loans sold to third-party investors.
The Company will rent the properties until it is deemed desirable to sell them. 25 The mortgage loan loss reserve is an estimate of probable losses at the balance sheet date that the Company will realize in the future on mortgage loans sold to third-party investors.
The Company desires to take advantage of the “safe harbor” provisions of the act. This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements, together with related data and projections, about the Company’s projected financial results and its future plans and strategies.
The Company desires to take advantage of the “safe harbor” provisions of the act. This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements, together with related data and projections, about the Company’s projected financial results and its plans and strategies.
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which originate mortgage loans that qualify for government insurance in the event of default by the borrower, in addition to various conventional mortgage loan products. SecurityNational Mortgage originates and refinances mortgage loans on a retail basis.
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which originates mortgage loans that qualify for government insurance in the event of default by the borrower, in addition to various conventional mortgage loan products. SecurityNational Mortgage originates and refinances mortgage loans on a retail basis.
Mortgage Industry Risks . Developments in the mortgage industry and credit markets can adversely affect the Company’s ability to sell its mortgage loans to investors, which can impact the Company’s financial results by requiring it to assume the risk of holding and servicing any unsold loans.
Developments in the mortgage industry and credit markets can adversely affect the Company’s ability to sell its mortgage loans to investors, which can impact the Company’s financial results by requiring it to assume the risk of holding and servicing any unsold loans.
To the extent that liabilities come due more quickly than assets mature, the Company might have to borrow funds or sell assets prior to maturity and potentially recognize a loss on the sale. 28 Mortality and Morbidity Risks .
To the extent that liabilities come due more quickly than assets mature, the Company might have to borrow funds or sell assets prior to maturity and potentially recognize a loss on the sale. Mortality and Morbidity Risks .
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Overview The Company’s operations over the last several years generally reflect three strategies which the Company expects to continue: (i) increased attention to “niche” insurance products, such as the Company’s funeral plan policies and traditional whole life products; (ii) increased emphasis on cemetery and mortuary business; and (iii) capitalizing on the housing market by originating mortgage loans.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Overview The Company’s operations over the last several years generally reflect three strategies which the Company expects to continue: (i) increased attention to “niche” insurance products, such as the Company’s funeral plan policies and traditional whole life products; (ii) increased emphasis on cemetery and mortuary business; and (iii) capitalizing on an improving housing market by originating mortgage loans.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates The following is a brief summary of the Company’s significant accounting policies and a review of the Company’s most critical accounting estimates. See Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates The following is a summary of the Company’s significant accounting policies and a review of the Company’s most critical accounting estimates. See Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Mortgage loans originated or refinanced by the Company’s mortgage subsidiaries are funded through loan purchase agreements with Security National Life, Kilpatrick Life and unaffiliated financial institutions. SecurityNational Mortgage receives fees from borrowers that are involved in mortgage loan originations and refinancings, and secondary fees earned from third party investors that purchase the mortgage loans.
Mortgage loans originated or refinanced by SecurityNational Mortgage are funded through loan purchase agreements with Security National Life, Kilpatrick Life and unaffiliated financial institutions. SecurityNational Mortgage receives fees from borrowers that are involved in mortgage loan originations and refinancings, and secondary fees earned from third party investors that purchase the mortgage loans.
Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant changes in the near term are those used in determining the value of derivative assets and liabilities; those used in determining deferred acquisition costs and the value of business acquired; those used in determining the value of mortgage loans foreclosed to real estate held for investment; those used in determining the liability for future policy benefits and unearned revenue; those used in determining the estimated future costs for pre-need sales; those used in determining the value of mortgage servicing rights; those used in determining allowances for loan losses for mortgage loans held for investment; those used in determining loan loss reserve; and those used in determining deferred tax assets and liabilities.
Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant changes in the near term are those used in determining the value of derivative assets and liabilities; those used in determining deferred acquisition costs and the value of business acquired; those used in determining the value of mortgage loans foreclosed to real estate held for investment or sale; those used in determining the liability for future policy benefits and unearned revenue; those used in determining the estimated future costs for pre-need sales; those used in determining the value of mortgage servicing rights; those used in determining the value of loans held for sale; those used in determining allowances for credit losses; those used in determining loan loss reserve; and those used in determining deferred tax assets and liabilities.
Funeral plans are small face value life insurance policies that payout upon a person’s death to cover funeral burial costs. Policyholders generally keep these policies in force and do not surrender them prior to death.
Funeral plans are small face value life insurance policies that payout upon a person’s death to cover funeral burial costs; policyholders generally keep these policies in force until, and do not surrender prior to, death.
The mortgage subsidiaries realize cash flow from fees generated by originating and refinancing mortgage loans and fees on mortgage loans held for sale that are sold to investors into the secondary market. It should be noted that current conditions in the financial markets and economy caused by COVID-19 may affect the realization of these expected cash flows.
The mortgage subsidiaries realize cash flow from fees generated by originating and refinancing mortgage loans and fees on mortgage loans held for sale that are sold to investors into the secondary market. It should be noted that current conditions in the financial markets and economy may affect the realization of these expected cash flows.
The Company attempts to match the duration of invested assets with its policyholder and cemetery and mortuary liabilities. The Company may sell investments other than those held to maturity in the portfolio to help in this timing matching. The Company purchases short-term investments on a temporary basis to meet the expectations of short-term requirements of the Company’s products.
The Company attempts to match the duration of invested assets with its policyholder and cemetery and mortuary liabilities. The Company may sell investments other than those held to maturity in the portfolio to help in this timing matching. The Company purchases short-term investments on a temporary basis to meet the expected short-term requirements of the Company’s insurance products.
However, actual results and needs of the Company may vary materially from forward-looking statements and projections made from time to time by the Company on the basis of management’s then-current expectations.
However, the actual results and needs of the Company may vary materially from forward-looking statements and projections made from time to time by the Company based on management’s then-current expectations.
Such anticipated premium revenues are estimated using the same assumption used for computing liabilities for future policy benefits and are generally “locked in” at the date the policies are issued. Value of Business Acquired Value of business acquired (“VOBA”) is the present value of estimated future profits of the acquired business and is amortized similar to deferred acquisition costs.
Such anticipated premium revenues are estimated using the same assumption used for computing liabilities for future policy benefits and are generally “locked in” at the date the policies are issued. Value of Business Acquired Value of business acquired (“VOBA”) is the present value of estimated future profits of the acquired business and is amortized like deferred acquisition costs.
Fallout rates and other factors from the Company’s recent historical data are used to estimate the quantity and value of mortgage loans that will fund within the terms of the commitments. Deferred Acquisition Costs Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”) for interest sensitive products is dependent upon estimates of current and future gross profits or margins on this business.
Fallout rates and other factors from the Company’s recent historical data are used to estimate the quantity and value of mortgage loans that will be funded within the terms of the commitments. 23 Deferred Acquisition Costs Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”) for interest sensitive products is dependent upon estimates of current and future gross profits or margins on this business.
The majority of loans originated are sold to third-party investors. The amounts expected to be sold to investors are shown on the consolidated balance sheets as loans held for sale. Use of Significant Accounting Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts and disclosures.
The amounts expected to be sold to investors are shown on the consolidated balance sheets as loans held for sale. Use of Significant Accounting Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts and disclosures.
The Company initially accounts for MSRs at fair value and subsequently accounts for them using the amortization method. MSR amortization is determined by amortizing the MSR balance in proportion to, and over the period of the estimated future net servicing income of the underlying financial assets.
The Company initially accounts for MSRs at fair value and subsequently accounts for them using the amortization method. MSR amortization is determined by amortizing the MSR balance in proportion to, and over the period of the estimated future net servicing income of the underlying financial assets. The Company periodically assesses MSRs accounted for using the amortization method for impairment.
Factors that may cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or projected, forecast, estimated or budgeted in such forward looking statements include among others, the following possibilities: (i) heightened competition, including the intensification of price competition, the entry of new competitors, and the introduction of new products by new and existing competitors; (ii) adverse state and federal legislation or regulation, including decreases in rates, limitations on premium levels, increases in minimum capital and reserve requirements, benefit mandates and tax treatment of insurance products; (iii) fluctuations in interest rates causing a reduction of investment income or increase in interest expense and in the market value of interest rate sensitive investment; (iv) failure to obtain new customers, retain existing customers or reductions in policies in force by existing customers; (v) higher service, administrative, or general expenses due to the need for additional advertising, marketing, administrative or management information systems expenditures; (vi) loss or retirement of key executives or employees; (vii) increases in medical costs; (viii) changes in the Company’s liquidity due to changes in asset and liability matching; (ix) restrictions on insurance underwriting based on genetic testing and other criteria; (x) adverse changes in the ratings obtained by independent rating agencies; (xi) failure to maintain adequate reinsurance; (xii) possible claims relating to sales practices for insurance products and claim denials; (xiii) adverse trends in mortality and morbidity; (xiv) deterioration of real estate markets; and (xv) lawsuits in the ordinary course of business.
The business in which the Company is engaged involves changing and competitive markets, which may involve a high degree of risk, and there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements and projections will prove accurate. 30 Factors that may cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or projected, forecast, estimated or budgeted in such forward looking statements include among others, the following possibilities: (i) heightened competition, including the intensification of price competition, the entry of new competitors, and the introduction of new products by new and existing competitors; (ii) adverse state and federal legislation or regulation, including decreases in rates, limitations on premium levels, increases in minimum capital and reserve requirements, benefit mandates and tax treatment of insurance products; (iii) fluctuations in interest rates causing a reduction of investment income or increase in interest expense and in the market value of interest rate sensitive investment; (iv) failure to obtain new customers, retain existing customers or reductions in policies in force by existing customers; (v) higher service, administrative, or general expenses due to the need for additional advertising, marketing, administrative or management information systems expenditures; (vi) loss or retirement of key executives or employees; (vii) increases in medical costs; (viii) changes in the Company’s liquidity due to changes in asset and liability matching; (ix) restrictions on insurance underwriting based on genetic testing and other criteria; (x) adverse changes in the ratings obtained by independent rating agencies; (xi) failure to maintain adequate reinsurance; (xii) possible claims relating to sales practices for insurance products and claim denials; (xiii) adverse trends in mortality and morbidity; (xiv) deterioration of real estate markets; and (xv) lawsuits in the ordinary course of business.
Contractual Obligations In the ordinary course of the Company’s operations, the Company enters into certain contractual obligations. Such obligations include operating leases for office space, agreements with respect to borrowed funds and future policy benefits. See Notes 7, 22, 24 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information about these obligations.
Maturities range between six and eighteen months. Contractual Obligations In the ordinary course of the Company’s operations, the Company enters into certain contractual obligations. Such obligations include operating leases for office space, agreements with respect to borrowed funds and future policy benefits. See Notes 7, 22, 24 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information about these obligations.
The estimated liability for indemnification losses is included in other liabilities and accrued expenses and, as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, the balances were $1,726,000 and $2,447,000, respectively. The Company believes the loan loss reserve represents probable loan losses incurred as of December 31, 2022.
The estimated liability for indemnification losses is included in other liabilities and accrued expenses and, as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the balances were $547,000 and $1,726,000, respectively. The Company believes the loan loss reserve represents probable loan losses incurred as of December 31, 2023.
There is a risk, however, that future loan losses may exceed the loan loss reserve. As of December 31, 2022, the Company’s mortgage loans held for investment portfolio consisted of mortgage loans in an aggregate principal amount of $2,567,000 with delinquencies exceeding 90 days. Of this amount, loans with an aggregate principal amount of $1,281,000 were in foreclosure proceedings.
There is a risk, however, that future loan losses may exceed the loan loss reserve. As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s mortgage loans held for investment portfolio consisted of mortgage loans in an aggregate principal amount of $6,149,000 with delinquencies exceeding 90 days. Of this amount, loans with an aggregate principal amount of $2,263,000 were in foreclosure proceedings.
Mortgage loans are generally sold with mortgage servicing rights (“MSRs”) released to third-party investors or retained by SecurityNational Mortgage. SecurityNational Mortgage currently retains the MSRs on approximately 7% of its loan origination volume. These mortgage loans are serviced by either SecurityNational Mortgage or an approved third-party sub-servicer.
Mortgage loans are generally sold with mortgage servicing rights (“MSRs”) released to third-party investors or retained by SecurityNational Mortgage. SecurityNational Mortgage currently retains the MSRs on approximately 4% of its loan origination volume. These mortgage loans are serviced by either SecurityNational Mortgage or an approved third-party sub-servicer. On October 31, 2022, the Company sold certain of its MSRs.
The Company has the ability to mitigate adverse experience through sound underwriting, asset and liability duration matching, sound actuarial practices, adjustments to credited interest rates, policyholder dividends and cost of insurance charges.
The Company can mitigate adverse experiences through sound underwriting, asset and liability duration matching, sound actuarial practices, adjustments to credited interest rates, policyholder dividends and cost of insurance charges.
At December 31, 2022 and 2021, the life insurance subsidiaries were in compliance with the regulatory criteria. The Company’s total capitalization of stockholders’ equity, and bank loans and other loans payable was $454,499,000 as of December 31, 2022, as compared to $551,054,000 as of December 31, 2021.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the life insurance subsidiaries were in compliance with the regulatory criteria. The Company’s total capitalization of stockholders’ equity, and bank loans and other loans payable was $418,450,000 as of December 31, 2023, as compared to $454,499,000 as of December 31, 2022.
It may be required, however, to repurchase a loan or pay a fee instead of repurchase under certain events, which include the following: ● Failure to deliver original documents specified by the investor, ● The existence of misrepresentation or fraud in the origination of the loan, ● The loan becomes delinquent due to nonpayment during the first several months after it is sold, ● Early pay-off of a loan, as defined by the agreements, ● Excessive time to settle a loan, ● Investor declines purchase, and ● Discontinued product and expired commitment.
It may be required, however, to repurchase a loan or pay a fee instead of repurchasing under certain events, which include the following: ● Failure to deliver original documents specified by the investor, ● The existence of misrepresentation or fraud in the origination of the loan, ● The loan becomes delinquent due to nonpayment during the first several months after it is sold, ● Early pay-off of a loan, as defined by the agreements, ● Excessive time to settle a loan, ● Investor declines purchase, and ● Discontinued product and expired commitment. 22 Loan purchase commitments generally specify a date 30 to 45 days after delivery upon which the underlying loans should be settled.
The Company advances funds once the work has been completed and an inspection is made. The maximum loan commitment ranges between 50% and 80% of appraised value. The Company receives fees and interest for these loans and the interest rate is generally fixed 5.25% to 8.50% per annum. Maturities generally range between six and eighteen months.
The Company advances funds in accordance with the loan agreements once the work has been completed and an independent inspection is made. The maximum loan commitment ranges between 50% and 80% of appraised value. The Company receives fees and interest for these loans and the interest rate is generally fixed at 5.25% to 8.50% per annum.
The Company’s estimates are based upon historical loss experience and the best estimate of the probable loan loss liabilities. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 the Company increased its loan loss reserve by $1,079,000 and $2,211,000, respectively, for loan originations, and the charges have been included in mortgage fee income.
The Company’s estimates are based upon historical loss experience and the best estimate of the probable loan loss liabilities. During 2023 and 2022 the Company decreased its loan loss reserve by $1,178,000 and increased its loan loss reserve by $1,079,000, respectively, for loan originations, and the charges have been included in mortgage fee income.
These assumptions are made based upon historical experience, industry standards and a best estimate of future results and, for traditional life products, include a provision for adverse deviation. For traditional life insurance, once established for a particular series of products, these assumptions are generally held constant.
These assumptions are made based upon historical experience, industry standards and a best estimate of future results and, for traditional life products, include a provision for adverse deviation.
Also, the Company may be subject to further regulations in the cemetery and mortuary business. The Company aims to mitigate these risks by offering a wide range of products and by diversifying its operations, thus reducing its exposure to any single product or jurisdiction, and also by employing underwriting practices that identify and minimize the adverse impact of such risks.
The Company aims to mitigate these risks by offering a wide range of products and by diversifying its operations, thus reducing its exposure to any single product or jurisdiction, and also by employing underwriting practices that identify and minimize the adverse impact of such risks. 27 Mortgage Industry Risks .
This change in rates may cause certain interest-sensitive products to become uncompetitive or may cause disintermediation. The Company aims to mitigate this risk by charging fees for non-conformance with certain policy provisions, by offering products that transfer this risk to the purchaser, and by attempting to match the maturity schedule of its assets with the expected payouts of its liabilities.
The Company aims to mitigate this risk by charging fees for non-conformance with certain policy provisions, by offering products that transfer this risk to the purchaser, and by attempting to match the maturity schedule of its assets with the expected payouts of its liabilities.
Market value, while often difficult to determine and may contain significant unobservable inputs, is based on the following guidelines: ● For loans that are committed, the Company uses the commitment price. ● For loans that are non-committed that have an active market, the Company uses the market price. ● For loans that are non-committed where there is no market but there is a similar product, the Company uses the market value for the similar product. ● For loans that are non-committed where no active market exists, the Company determines that the unpaid principal balance best approximates the market value, after considering the fair value of the underlying real estate collateral, estimated future cash flows, and loan interest rate. 23 The appraised value of the real estate underlying the original mortgage loan adds significance to the Company’s determination of fair value because, if the loan becomes delinquent, the Company has sufficient value to collect the unpaid principal balance or the carrying value of the loan, thus minimizing credit risk.
Market value, while often difficult to determine and may contain significant unobservable inputs, is based on the following guidelines: ● For loans that are committed, the Company uses the commitment price. ● For loans that are non-committed that have an active market, the Company uses the market price. ● For loans that are non-committed where there is no market but there is a similar product, the Company uses the market value for the similar product. ● For loans that are non-committed where no active market exists, the Company determines that the unpaid principal balance best approximates the market value, after considering the fair value of the underlying real estate collateral, estimated future cash flows, and loan interest rate.
Future policy benefits are recognized as expenses over the life of the policy by means of the provision for future policy benefits. The costs related to acquiring new business, including certain costs of issuing policies and other variable selling expenses (principally commissions), defined as deferred policy acquisition costs, are capitalized and amortized into expense.
The costs related to acquiring new business, including certain costs of issuing policies and other variable selling expenses (principally commissions), defined as deferred policy acquisition costs, are capitalized, and amortized into expenses.
It is the Company’s policy to cure any documentation problems regarding such loans at a minimal cost for up to a six-month time period and to pursue efforts to enforce loan purchase commitments from third-party investors concerning the loans.
Depending on market conditions, these commitment settlement dates can be extended at a cost to the Company. It is the Company’s policy to cure any documentation problems regarding such loans at a minimal cost for up to a six-month period and to pursue efforts to enforce loan purchase commitments from third-party investors concerning the loans.
This increase was due to an increase of $2,253,000 in renewal premiums due to the growth of the Company in recent years, particularly in whole life products, which resulted in more premium paying policies in force and an increase of $2,494,000 in first year premiums as a result of increased final expense insurance sales.
This increase was due to an increase of $9,238,000 in first year premiums because of increased preneed insurance sales and an increase of $419,000 in renewal premiums due to the growth of the Company in recent years, particularly in whole life products, which resulted in more premium paying policies in force.
If market conditions were to cause interest rates to change, the fair value of the Company’s fixed income portfolio (of approximately $653,982,000), which includes bonds, preferred stocks and mortgage loans held for investment, could change by the following amounts based on the respective basis point swing (the change in the fair values were calculated using a modeling technique): -200 bps -100 bps +100 bps +200 bps Change in Fair Value (in thousands) $ 60,877 $ 29,720 $ (32,592 ) $ (63,748 ) The Company is subject to risk-based capital guidelines established by statutory regulators requiring minimum capital levels based on the perceived risk of assets, liabilities, disintermediation, and business risk.
If market conditions were to cause interest rates to change, the fair value of the Company’s fixed income portfolio (of approximately $657,153,000), which includes bonds, preferred stocks and mortgage loans held for investment, could change by the following amounts based on the respective basis point swing (the change in the fair values were calculated using a modeling technique): -200 bps -100 bps +100 bps +200 bps Change in Fair Value $ 44,352 $ 20,873 $ (19,034 ) $ (39,027 ) (in thousands) The Company’s life insurance subsidiaries are subject to risk-based capital guidelines established by statutory regulators requiring minimum capital levels based on the perceived risk of assets, liabilities, disintermediation, and business risk.
The following table shows the condensed financial results for the Company’s mortgage operations for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021. See Note 15 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Insurance Operations The following table shows the condensed financial results for the Company’s insurance operations for 2023 and 2022. See Note 15 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
As expected, the rapid increase in mortgage rates has resulted in a decrease in loan originations classified as ‘refinance’. Higher mortgage rates have also had a negative effect on loan originations classified as ‘purchase’, although not as significant as those in the refinance classification.
Higher mortgage rates have also had a negative effect on loan originations classified as ‘purchases’, although not as significant as those in the refinance classification.
The Company periodically assesses MSRs accounted for using the amortization method for impairment. 25 Mortgage Allowance for Loan Losses and Loan Loss Reserve The Company provides for losses on its mortgage loans held for investment through an allowance for loan losses (a contra-asset account) and through the mortgage loan loss reserve (a liability account).
Mortgage Allowance for Credit Losses and Loan Loss Reserve The Company provides for losses on its mortgage loans held for investment through an allowance for credit losses (a contra-asset account) and through the mortgage loan loss reserve (a liability account).
This increase was primarily due to an increase in the average outstanding balance of deferred policy and pre-need acquisition costs. Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased by $66,590,000, or 22.3%, to $231,848,000 for 2022, from $298,438,000 for 2021.
This increase was primarily due to an increase in the average outstanding balance of deferred policy and pre-need acquisition costs. Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased by an aggregate of $57,358,000, or 24.7%, to $174,490,000 for 2023, from $231,848,000 for 2022.
Death and other policyholder benefits reflect exposure to mortality risk and fluctuate from year to year on the level of claims incurred under insurance retention limits. The profitability of the Company is primarily affected by fluctuations in mortality, other policyholder benefits, expense levels, interest spreads (i.e., the difference between interest earned on investments and interest credited to policyholders) and persistency.
The profitability of the Company is primarily affected by fluctuations in mortality, other policyholder benefits, expense levels, interest spreads (i.e., the difference between interest earned on investments and interest credited to policyholders) and persistency.
At December 31, 2022, 2.2% (or $7,833,000) and at December 31, 2021, 3.9% (or $9,991,000) of the Company’s total bond investments were invested in bonds in rating categories three through six, which are considered non-investment grade.
As of December 31, 2023, 1.8% (or $6,954,000) and as of December 31, 2022, 2.2% (or $7,833,000) of the insurance subsidiaries’ total bond investments were invested in bonds in rating categories three through six, which are considered non-investment grade.
This decrease was partially offset by a $2,596,000 increase in future policy benefits and a $718,000 increase in surrender and other policy benefits. Amortization of deferred policy and pre-need acquisition costs and value of business acquired increased by $1,807,000, or 11.2%, to $17,950,000 for 2022, from $16,143,000 for 2021.
This increase was partially offset by a $76,000 decrease in surrender and other policy benefits. Amortization of deferred policy and pre-need acquisition costs and value of business acquired increased by $74,000, or 0.4%, to $18,024,000 for 2023, from $17,950,000 for 2022.
Revenues reported for these products consist of policy charges for the cost of insurance, administration charges, amortization of policy initiation fees and surrender charges assessed against policyholder account balances.
Revenues reported for these products consist of policy charges for the cost of insurance, administration charges, amortization of policy initiation fees and surrender charges assessed against policyholder account balances. Surrender benefits paid relating to these products are reflected as decreases in liabilities for policyholder account balances and not as expenses.
Because of the long-term nature of these liabilities, the Company is able to hold to maturity its bonds, real estate, and mortgage loans thus reducing the risk of liquidating these long-term investments as a result of any sudden changes in their fair values.
Because of the long-term nature of these liabilities, the Company can hold to maturity or for the targeted investment period its corresponding bond, real estate, and mortgage loan investments, thus reducing the risk of liquidating these long-term investments because of any sudden changes in their fair values.
Lapse rates measure the amount of insurance terminated during a particular period. The Company’s lapse rate for life insurance was 4.3% in 2022 as compared to a rate of 4.8% for 2021. 30 The combined statutory capital and surplus of the Company’s life insurance subsidiaries was $94,254,000 and $82,823,000 as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
The Company’s lapse rate for life insurance was 4.4% for 2023 as compared to a rate of 4.3% for 2022. The combined statutory capital and surplus of the Company’s life insurance subsidiaries was $107,385,000 and $94,254,000 as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Generally, all bonds owned by the life insurance subsidiaries are rated by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Under this rating system, there are six categories used for rating bonds.
This represented 38.7% and 36.4% of the total investments of the Company as of December 31, 2023, and 2022, respectively. Generally, all bonds owned by the life insurance subsidiaries are rated by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Under this rating system, there are six categories used for rating bonds.
Years ended December 31 (in thousands of dollars) 2022 2021 2022 vs 2021 % Increase (Decrease) Revenues from external customers: Cemetery revenues $ 13,871 $ 15,626 (11 %) Mortuary revenues 13,123 8,371 57 % Net investment income 2,445 1,654 48 % Gains (losses) on investments and other assets (796 ) 1,512 (153 %) Other 305 100 205 % Total $ 28,948 $ 27,263 6 % Earnings before income taxes $ 6,094 $ 7,925 (23 %) Profitability in 2022 decreased due to (a) a $2,398,000 increase in selling, general and administrative expenses, (b) a $2,308,000 decrease in gains on investments and other assets primarily attributable to a $579,000 decrease in gains on real estate sales and a $1,729,000 decrease in gains on equity securities classified as restricted assets and cemetery perpetual care trust investments primarily due to a decrease in the fair value of equity securities, (c) a $2,066,000 decrease in cemetery pre-need sales, (d) a $1,017,000 increase in costs of goods sold, (e) a $225,000 increase in intersegment interest expense and other expenses, and (f) a $66,000 increase in amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, which were partially offset by (i) a $4,751,000 increase in mortuary at-need sales, (ii) a $791,000 increase in net investment income, (iii) a $311,000 increase in cemetery at-need sales, (iv) a $205,000 increase in other revenues (v) a $137,000 increase in intersegment revenues, and (vi) a $54,000 decrease in interest expense.
Years ended December 31 (in thousands of dollars) 2023 2022 2023 vs 2022 % Increase (Decrease) Revenues from external customers: Cemetery revenues $ 15,189 $ 13,871 10 % Mortuary revenues 12,676 13,123 (3 %) Net investment income 2,952 2,445 21 % Gains (losses) on investments and other assets 717 (796 ) 190 % Other 404 305 32 % Total $ 31,938 $ 28,948 10 % Earnings before income taxes $ 8,445 $ 6,094 39 % Profitability in 2023 increased due to (a) a $2,196,000 increase in cemetery pre-need sales, (b) a $1,513,000 increase in gains on investments and other assets (primarily attributable to an increase in the fair value of equity securities classified as restricted assets and cemetery perpetual care trust investments), (c) a $507,000 increase in net investment income, (d) a $99,000 increase in other revenues, (e) a $59,000 decrease in amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, and (f) a $44,000 decrease in intersegment interest expense and other expenses, which were partially offset by (i) a $878,000 decrease in cemetery at-need sales, (ii) a $546,000 increase in selling, general and administrative expenses, (iii) a $447,000 decrease in mortuary at-need sales, (iv) a $111,000 decrease in intersegment revenues, and (v) a $85,000 increase in costs of goods sold.
Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities Deferred tax assets and liabilities require various estimates and judgments and may be affected favorably or unfavorably by various internal and external factors.
The estimated liability for indemnification losses is included in other liabilities and accrued expenses. Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities Deferred tax assets and liabilities require various estimates and judgments and may be affected favorably or unfavorably by various internal and external factors.
Unearned Premium Reserve The universal life products the Company sells have significant policy initiation fees (front-end load) that are deferred and amortized into revenues over the estimated expected gross profits from surrender charges and investment, mortality and expense margins. The same issues that impact deferred acquisition costs apply to unearned revenue.
For traditional life insurance, once established for a particular series of products, these assumptions are generally held constant. 24 Unearned Premium Reserve The universal life products the Company sells have significant policy initiation fees (front-end load) that are deferred and amortized into revenues over the estimated expected gross profits from surrender charges and investment, mortality, and expense margins.
The fair value is also estimated by obtaining an independent appraisal, which typically considers area comparable properties and property condition. 24 Future Policy Benefits Reserves for future policy benefits for traditional life insurance products requires the use of many assumptions, including the duration of the policies, mortality experience, expenses, investment yield, lapse rates, surrender rates, and dividend crediting rates.
Future Policy Benefits Reserves for future policy benefits for traditional life insurance products requires the use of many assumptions, including the duration of the policies, mortality experience, expenses, investment yield, lapse rates, surrender rates, and dividend crediting rates.
Years ended December 31 (in thousands of dollars) 2022 2021 2022 vs 2021 % Increase (Decrease) Revenues from external customers: Secondary gains from investors $ 153,728 $ 230,417 (33 %) Income from loan originations 32,772 44,897 (27 %) Change in fair value of loans held for sale (8,835 ) (8,783 ) 1 % Change in fair value of loan commitments (4,309 ) (3,113 ) 38 % Net investment income 1,188 519 129 % Gains on investments and other assets 398 199 100 % Other 16,580 16,282 2 % Total $ 191,522 $ 280,418 (32 %) Earnings before income taxes $ 14,088 $ 28,903 (51 %) Included in other revenues is service fee income.
Years ended December 31 (in thousands of dollars) 2023 2022 2023 vs 2022 % Increase (Decrease) Revenues from external customers: Secondary gains from investors $ 68,428 $ 153,728 (55 %) Income from loan originations 31,245 32,772 (5 %) Change in fair value of loans held for sale (478 ) (8,835 ) (95 %) Change in fair value of loan commitments (1,124 ) (4,309 ) (74 %) Net investment income 1,580 1,188 33 % Gains on investments and other assets 157 398 (61 %) Other 1,576 16,580 (90 %) Total $ 101,384 $ 191,522 (47 %) Earnings (loss) before income taxes $ (17,416 ) $ 14,088 (224 %) Included in other revenues is service fee income.
Surrender benefits paid relating to these products are reflected as decreases in liabilities for policyholder account balances and not as expenses. 21 The Company receives investment income earned from the funds deposited into account balances, a portion of which is passed through to the policyholders in the form of interest credited.
The Company receives investment income earned from the funds deposited into account balances, a portion of which is passed through to the policyholders in the form of interest credited. Interest credited to policyholder account balances and benefit claims more than policyholder account balances are reported as expenses in the consolidated financial statements.
When a loan becomes delinquent, the Company proceeds to foreclose on the real estate and all expenses for foreclosure are expensed as incurred. Once foreclosed, an adjustment for the lower of cost or fair value is made, if necessary, and the amount is classified as real estate held for investment.
Once foreclosed, an adjustment for the lower of cost or fair value is made, if necessary, and the amount is classified as real estate held for investment.
Off-Balance Sheet Agreements The Company has entered into commitments to fund construction and land development loans and has also provided financing for land acquisition and development. As of December 31, 2022, the Company’s commitments were approximately $231,250,000 for these loans, of which $175,754,000 had been funded.
Off-Balance Sheet Agreements The Company has commitments to fund existing construction and land development loans pursuant to the various loan agreements. As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s commitments were approximately $146,953,000 for these loans, of which $104,977,000 had been funded.
This decrease was primarily due to a $76,546,000 decrease in secondary gains from mortgage loans sold to third-party investors into the secondary market, a $13,258,000 decrease in loan fees and interest income, a $1,247,000 decrease in the fair value of loans held for sale and loan commitments.
This decrease was primarily due to an $85,366,000 decrease in secondary gains from mortgage loans sold to third-party investors into the secondary market, and a $2,579,000 decrease in loan fees and interest income.
Profitability in 2022 has decreased due to (a) a $76,689,000 decrease in secondary gains from investors, (b) a $12,125,000 decrease in income from loan originations, (c) $1,196,000 decrease in the fair value of loan commitments, (d) a $1,124,000 increase in intersegment expenses, (e) a $242,000 decrease in intersegment revenues, (e) a $51,000 increase in depreciation on property and equipment, and (f) a $51,000 decrease in the fair value of loans held for sale, which were partially offset by (i) a $55,003,000 decrease in commissions, (ii) an $8,481,000 decrease in other expenses, (iii) a $4,360,000 decrease in personnel expenses, (iv) a $3,002,000 decrease in costs related to funding mortgage loans, (v) a $2,230,000 decrease in intersegment interest expense, (vi) a $1,474,000 decrease in advertising expenses, (vii) a $884,000 decrease in interest expense, (viii) $669,000 increase in net investment income, (ix) a $297,000 increase in other revenues, (x) a $199,000 increase in gains on investments and other assets, (xi) and a $64,000 decrease in rent and rent related expenses.
Profitability in 2023 decreased due to (a) an $85,300,000 decrease in secondary gains from investors, (b) a $15,004,000 decrease in other revenues due to the sale of certain MSRs in October 2022, (c) a $1,535,000 increase in intersegment interest expense and other expenses, (d) a $1,527,000 decrease in income from loan originations, and (e) a $241,000 decrease in gains on investments and other assets, which were partially offset by (i) a $23,662,000 decrease in commissions, (ii) a $17,871,000 decrease in personnel expenses, (iii) a $13,180,000 decrease in other expenses, (iv) an $8,356,000 increase in the fair value of loans held for sale, (v) a $3,185,000 increase in the fair value of loan commitments, (vi) a $3,077,000 decrease in interest expense, (vii) a $1,100,000 decrease in costs related to funding mortgage loans, (viii) a $1,011,000 decrease in advertising expenses, (ix) a $392,000 increase in net investment income, (x) a $175,000 increase in intersegment revenues, (xi) a $42,000 decrease in depreciation on property and equipment, and (xii) a $52,000 decrease in rent and rent related expenses.
These tests evaluate whether the present value of future contract-related cash flows will support the capitalized DAC and VOBA assets. These cash flows consist primarily of premium income, less benefits and expenses.
The Company tests for recoverability by using the Company’s current best-estimate assumptions as to policyholder mortality, persistency, maintenance expenses and invested asset returns. These tests evaluate whether the present value of future contract-related cash flows will support the capitalized DAC and VOBA assets. These cash flows consist primarily of premium income, less benefits, and expenses.
This program permits the Company to self-insure a portion of losses, to gain access to a wide array of safety-related services, to pool insurance risks and resources in order to obtain more competitive pricing for administration and reinsurance and to limit its risk of loss in any particular year.
This program permits the Company to pool insurance risks and resources with like-minded companies in order to obtain more competitive pricing for claims administration, stop loss insurance premiums and to limit its risk of loss in any particular year.
This increase was primarily attributable to a $6,191,000 increase in mortgage loan interest, a $2,228,000 increase in rental income from real estate held for investment, a $1,626,000 increase in fixed maturity securities income, a $1,431,000 increase in interest on cash and cash equivalents, a $388,000 increase in income in other investments, and a $65,000 increase in equity securities income.
This increase was primarily attributable to a $4,476,000 increase in fixed maturity securities income, a $2,583,000 increase in interest on cash and cash equivalents, a $477,000 decrease in investment expenses, a $223,000 increase in rental income from real estate held for investment, a $106,000 increase in equity securities income, a $99,000 increase in income in other investments, and a $5,000 increase in insurance assignment income.
This decrease in mortgage fee income was partially offset by a $1,133,000 decrease in the provision for loan loss reserve. Insurance premiums and other considerations increased by $4,747,000, or 4.7%, to $105,002,000 for 2022, from $100,255,000 for 2021.
This decrease in mortgage fee income was partially offset by a $11,541,000 increase in the fair value of loans held for sale and loan commitments and a $1,052,000 decrease in the provision for loan loss reserve. Insurance premiums and other considerations increased by $9,657,000, or 9.2%, to $114,658,000 for 2023, from $105,002,000 for 2022.
Changes in these estimates, judgments or factors may result in an increase or decrease to the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities with a related increase or decrease in the Company’s provision for income taxes.
Changes in these estimates, judgments or factors may result in an increase or decrease to the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities with a related increase or decrease in the Company’s provision for income taxes. Results of Consolidated Operations 2023 Compared to 2022 Total revenues decreased by $71,155,000, or 18.3%, to $318,497,000 for 2023 from $389,652,000 for 2022.
This increase was primarily due to a $4,751,000 increase in mortuary at-need sales and a $311,000 increase in cemetery at-need sales. This increase was partially offset by a $2,065,000 decrease in cemetery pre-need sales Gains on investments and other assets decreased by $7,123,000, or 113.7%, to $858,000 in losses for 2022, from $6,265,000 in gains for 2021.
This increase was partially offset by a $878,000 decrease in cemetery at-need sales and a $447,000 decrease in mortuary at-need sales. Gains on investments and other assets increased by $2,695,000, or 314.3%, to $1,837,000 in gains for 2023, from $858,000 in losses for 2022.
Net investment income increased by $7,933,000, or 13.6%, to $66,198,000 for 2022, from $58,265,000 for 2021.
Net investment income increased by $6,145,000, or 9.3%, to $72,343,000 for 2023, from $66,198,000 for 2022.
This decrease in gains on investments and other assets was primarily due to a $5,243,000 decrease in gains on equity securities mostly attributable to decreases in the fair value of these equity securities, a $1,197,000 decrease in gains on other assets mostly attributable to a decrease in gains recognized on the sale of mortgage loans held for investment, and a $683,000 decrease in gains on fixed maturity securities.
This increase in gains on investments and other assets was primarily due to a $4,157,000 increase in gains on equity securities mostly attributable to increases in the fair value of these equity securities.
The decrease in cash provided by operations was due primarily to decreased proceeds from the sale of loans held for sale. 29 The Company’s liability for future policy benefits is expected to be paid out over the long-term due to the Company’s market niche of selling funeral plans.
The decrease in cash provided by operations was due primarily to decreased proceeds from the sale of loans held for sale. The Company expects to pay out liabilities under its funeral plans over the long term given the nature of those plans.
Premium Deficiency and Loss Recognition Testing At least annually, the Company tests the adequacy of the net benefit reserves (liability for future policy benefits, net of DAC and VOBA) recorded for life insurance and annuity products. The Company tests for recoverability by using the Company’s current best-estimate assumptions as to policyholder mortality, persistency, maintenance expenses and invested asset returns.
The same issues that impact deferred acquisition costs apply to unearned revenue. Premium Deficiency and Loss Recognition Testing At least annually, the Company tests the adequacy of the net benefit reserves (liability for future policy benefits, net of DAC and VOBA) recorded for life insurance and annuity products.
Death benefits, surrenders and other policy benefits, and future policy benefits decreased by an aggregate of $556,000, or 0.6%, to $92,926,000 for 2022, from $93,482,000 for 2021. This decrease was primarily the result of a $3,870,000 decrease in death benefits ($4,296,000 for COVID-19 related deaths).
Death benefits, surrenders and other policy benefits, and future policy benefits increased by an aggregate of $7,086,000, or 7.6%, to $100,012,000 for 2023, from $92,926,000 for 2022. This increase was primarily the result of a $5,150,000 increase in future policy benefits and a $2,012,000 increase in death benefits.
This increase was partially offset by a $3,039,000 increase in investment expenses, a $949,000 decrease in insurance assignment income, and an $8,000 decrease in policy loan income. Net mortuary and cemetery sales increased by $2,997,000, or 12.5%, to $26,994,000 for 2022, from $23,997,000 for 2021.
This increase was partially offset by a $1,708,000 decrease in mortgage loan interest and a $116,000 decrease in policy loan income. 26 Net mortuary and cemetery sales increased by $871,000, or 3.2%, to $27,865,000 for 2023, from $26,994,000 for 2022. This increase was primarily due to a $2,196,000 increase in cemetery pre-need sales.
This increase was primarily due to a $1,587,000 increase in interest expense on bank loans, which was partially offset by a decrease of $884,000 in interest expense on mortgage warehouse lines for loans held for sale. 27 Cost of goods and services sold of the cemeteries and mortuaries increased by $1,017,000, or 27.5%, to $4,721,000 for 2022, from $3,704,000 for 2021.
Interest expense decreased by $2,965,000, or 37.9%, to $4,865,000 for 2023, from $7,830,000 for 2022. This decrease was primarily due to a decrease of $3,077,000 in interest expense on mortgage warehouse lines of credit for loans held for sale, which was partially offset by a $112,000 increase in interest expense on bank loans.
This amortization is adjusted when the Company revises the estimate of current or future gross profits or margins. For example, deferred policy acquisition costs are amortized earlier than originally estimated when policy terminations are higher than originally estimated or when investments backing the related policyholder liabilities are sold at a gain prior to their anticipated maturity.
For example, deferred policy acquisition costs are amortized earlier than originally estimated when policy terminations are higher than originally estimated or when investments backing the related policyholder liabilities are sold at a gain prior to their anticipated maturity. 21 Death and other policyholder benefits reflect exposure to mortality risk and fluctuate from year to year on the level of claims incurred under insurance retention limits.
This decrease in total revenues was offset by a $7,933,000 increase in net investment income, a $4,747,000 increase in insurance premiums and other considerations, a $2,997,000 increase in net cemetery and mortuary sales, a $281,000 increase in other revenues, and a $40,000 decrease in other than temporary impairments. 26 Mortgage fee income decreased by $89,918,000, or 34.1%, to $173,500,000 for 2022, from $263,418,000 for 2021.
This decrease in total revenues was offset by a $9,657,000 increase in insurance premiums and other considerations, a $6,145,000 increase in net investment income, a $2,695,000 increase in gains on investments and other assets, and an $871,000 increase in net cemetery and mortuary sales. Mortgage fee income decreased by $75,352,000, or 43.4%, to $98,148,000 for 2023, from $173,500,000 for 2022.
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2021, EverLEND Mortgage originated 323 loans ($108,295,000 total volume). Mortgage rates have followed the US Treasury yields up in response to the higher than expected inflation and the expectation that the Federal Reserve will continue to raise rates in the near term.
Mortgage rates have followed the US Treasury yields up in response to the higher-than-expected inflation and the expectation that the Federal Reserve will continue to raise rates in the near term. As expected, the rapid increase in mortgage rates has resulted in a decrease in loan originations classified as ‘refinance’.
This decrease was primarily the result of a $54,965,000 decrease in commissions, a $7,268,000 decrease in other expenses, a $3,002,000 decrease in costs related to funding mortgage loans, a $928,000 decrease in advertising expenses, a $629,000 decrease in personnel expenses, and a $359,000 decrease in rent and rent related expenses.
This decrease was primarily the result of a $23,391,000 decrease in commissions, a $16,970,000 decrease in personnel expenses, a $13,739,000 decrease in other expenses, a $1,987,000 decrease in advertising expenses, a $1,100,000 decrease in costs related to funding mortgage loans, a $145,000 decrease in depreciation on property and equipment, and a $26,000 decrease in rent and rent related expenses.
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company increased its allowance for loan losses by $270,000 and by $305,000, respectively, which was charged to bad debt expense and included in selling, general and administrative expenses for the period.
The Company has not received or recognized any interest income on the $6,149,000 in mortgage loans with delinquencies exceeding 90 days. During 2023 and 2022, the Company increased its allowance for credit losses by $1,184,000 and by $270,000, respectively, which was charged to bad debt expense and included in selling, general and administrative expenses for the period.
Interest credited to policyholder account balances and benefit claims in excess of policyholder account balances are reported as expenses in the consolidated financial statements. Premiums and other considerations received for traditional life insurance products are recognized as revenues when due.
Premiums and other considerations received for traditional life insurance products are recognized as revenues when due. Future policy benefits are recognized as expenses over the life of the policy by means of the provision for future policy benefits.
The maximum exposure to loss related to the Company’s involvement with this entity is limited to approximately $443,758, which is collateralized under a standby letter of credit issued on the insurance entity’s behalf. See Note 10, “Reinsurance, Commitments and Contingencies,” for additional discussion of commitments associated with the insurance program.
The Captive also provides access to a wide array of safety-related services and regular safety training to help the Company control claims. The maximum exposure to a loss related to the Company’s involvement in the Captive is limited to approximately $443,758, which is collateralized under a standby letter of credit issued on the insurance entity’s behalf.