Biggest changeOther health product premiums increased $2.0 million, or 16.0%, during 2023 as compared to 2022, primarily as a result of new sales of the company’s group health and individual cancer products. Gross earned premiums from the life insurance line of business increased $2.8 million, or 17.6%, in 2023 from 2022 due to an increase in the group life product premiums.
Biggest changePartially offsetting the decrease were increases in the group accident and health, group life and other individual health lines of business due to new sales. Ceded premiums decreased $2.7 million, or 4.9%, during 2024 as compared to 2023. The decrease in ceded premiums was due to a decrease in Medicare supplement premiums subject to reinsurance.
The outstanding $18.0 million and $15.7 million of Junior Subordinated Debentures mature on December 4, 2032 and May 15, 2033, respectively, are callable quarterly, in whole or in part, only at the option of the Company, and have an interest rate of 3-month CME Term SOFR plus applicable tenor spread of 0.26161 percent plus an applicable margin.
The outstanding $18.0 million and $15.7 million of Junior Subordinated Debentures mature on December 4, 2032 and May 15, 2033, respectively, are callable quarterly, in whole or in part, only at the option of the Company, and have an interest rate of 3-month CME Term SOFR plus applicable tenor spread of 0.26161% plus an applicable margin.
See Note 2 and Note 3 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements with respect to assets and liabilities carried at fair value and information about the inputs used to value those financial instruments, by hierarchy level, in accordance with ASC 820-10-20. Future policy benefits comprised 34% of the Company’s total liabilities at December 31, 2023.
See Note 2 and Note 3 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements with respect to assets and liabilities carried at fair value and information about the inputs used to value those financial instruments, by hierarchy level, in accordance with ASC 820-10-20. Future policy benefits comprised 34% of the Company’s total liabilities at December 31, 2024.
The Company intends to pay its obligations under the Junior Subordinated Debentures using existing cash balances, dividend and tax-sharing payments from the operating subsidiaries, or from existing or potential future financing arrangements. At December 31, 2023, the Company had 55,000 shares of Series D preferred stock (“Series D Preferred Stock”) outstanding.
The Company intends to pay its obligations under the Junior Subordinated Debentures using existing cash balances, dividend and tax-sharing payments from the operating subsidiaries, or from existing or potential future financing arrangements. At December 31, 2024, the Company had 55,000 shares of Series D preferred stock (“Series D Preferred Stock”) outstanding.
If, for competitive reasons, premiums cannot be increased to anticipate inflation, this cost would be absorbed by the Company. Inflation also affects the rate of investment return on the Company’s investment portfolio with a corresponding effect on investment income. During 2023, inflation was a factor in increased loss experience within the Company’s automobile liability line of business.
If, for competitive reasons, premiums cannot be increased to anticipate inflation, this cost would be absorbed by the Company. Inflation also affects the rate of investment return on the Company’s investment portfolio with a corresponding effect on investment income. During 2024, inflation was a factor in increased loss experience within the Company’s automobile liability line of business.
Upon an event of default, the Lender may, among other things, declare all obligations under the Credit Agreement immediately due and payable and terminate the revolving commitments. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had outstanding borrowings of $3.0 million under the Credit Agreement.
Upon an event of default, the Lender may, among other things, declare all obligations under the Credit Agreement immediately due and payable and terminate the revolving commitments. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company had outstanding borrowings of $4.0 million and $3.0 million under the Credit Agreement.
Development on reported claims, estimates of unpaid ultimate losses on claims incurred prior to December 31, 2023 but not yet reported, and estimates of unpaid loss adjustment expenses are developed based on the Company’s historical experience, using actuarial methods to assist in the analysis.
Development on reported claims, estimates of unpaid ultimate losses on claims incurred prior to December 31, 2024 but not yet reported, and estimates of unpaid loss adjustment expenses are developed based on the Company’s historical experience, using actuarial methods to assist in the analysis.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations The following is management’s discussion and analysis of the financial condition and results of operations of Atlantic American Corporation (“Atlantic American” or the “Parent”) and its subsidiaries (collectively with the Parent, the “Company”) for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations The following is management’s discussion and analysis of the financial condition and results of operations of Atlantic American Corporation (“Atlantic American” or the “Parent”) and its subsidiaries (collectively with the Parent, the “Company”) for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.
This liability includes estimates for: (1) unpaid losses on claims reported prior to December 31, 2023, (2) future development on those reported claims, (3) unpaid ultimate losses on claims incurred prior to December 31, 2023 but not yet reported and (4) unpaid loss adjustment expenses for reported and unreported claims incurred prior to December 31, 2023.
This liability includes estimates for: (1) unpaid losses on claims reported prior to December 31, 2024, (2) future development on those reported claims, (3) unpaid ultimate losses on claims incurred prior to December 31, 2024 but not yet reported and (4) unpaid loss adjustment expenses for reported and unreported claims incurred prior to December 31, 2024.
The Series D Preferred Stock is not currently convertible. The Company had accrued, but unpaid, dividends on the Series D Preferred Stock of $17.7 thousand at December 31, 2023 and 2022. During each of 2023 and 2022, the Company paid Series D Preferred Stock dividends of $0.4 million.
The Series D Preferred Stock is not currently convertible. The Company had accrued, but unpaid, dividends on the Series D Preferred Stock of $17.7 thousand at December 31, 2024 and 2023. During each of 2024 and 2023, the Company paid Series D Preferred Stock dividends of $0.4 million.
Atlantic American does not expect that changes in the estimates determined using these policies will have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition or liquidity, although changes could have a material effect on its consolidated results of operations. Cash and investments comprised 70% of the Company’s total assets at December 31, 2023.
Atlantic American does not expect that changes in the estimates determined using these policies will have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition or liquidity, although changes could have a material effect on its consolidated results of operations. Cash and investments comprised 68% of the Company’s total assets at December 31, 2024.
The membership arrangement provides for credit availability of five percent of statutory admitted assets, or approximately $8.0 million, as of December 31, 2023. Additional FHLB stock purchases may be required based upon the amount of funds borrowed from the FHLB. As of December 31, 2023, BFLIC has pledged bonds having an amortized cost of $9.6 million to the FHLB.
The membership arrangement provides for credit availability of five percent of statutory admitted assets, or approximately $8.2 million, as of December 31, 2024. Additional FHLB stock purchases may be required based upon the amount of funds borrowed from the FHLB. As of December 31, 2024, BFLIC has pledged bonds having an amortized cost of $9.2 million to the FHLB.
Losses are recognized by the Company when determined on a specific account basis and a general provision for loss is made based on the Company’s historical experience. Deferred acquisition costs comprised 12% of the Company’s total assets at December 31, 2023.
Losses are recognized by the Company when determined on a specific account basis and a general provision for loss is made based on the Company’s historical experience. Deferred acquisition costs comprised 11% of the Company’s total assets at December 31, 2024.
Receivables are amounts due from reinsurers, insureds and agents, and any sales of investment securities not yet settled, and comprised 12% of the Company’s total assets at December 31, 2023. Insured and agent balances are evaluated periodically for collectibility. Annually, the Company performs an analysis of the creditworthiness of the reinsurers with whom the Company contracts using various data sources.
Receivables are amounts due from reinsurers, insureds and agents, and any sales of investment securities not yet settled, and comprised 13% of the Company’s total assets at December 31, 2024. Insured and agent balances are evaluated periodically for collectability. Annually, the Company performs an analysis of the creditworthiness of the reinsurers with whom the Company contracts using various data sources.
If actual results differ from the initial assumptions, the amount of the Company’s recorded liability could require adjustment. 16 Table of Contents Unpaid loss and loss adjustment expenses comprised 32% of the Company’s total liabilities at December 31, 2023.
If actual results differ from the initial assumptions, the amount of the Company’s recorded liability could require adjustment. 15 Table of Contents Unpaid loss and loss adjustment expenses comprised 32% of the Company’s total liabilities at December 31, 2024.
The amount charged to and paid by the subsidiaries for these services was $8.7 million and $7.6 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively. In addition, the Parent has a formal tax-sharing agreement with each of its insurance subsidiaries.
The amount charged to and paid by the subsidiaries for these services was $9.4 million and $8.7 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively. In addition, the Parent has a formal tax-sharing agreement with each of its insurance subsidiaries.
The margin ranges from 4.00% to 4.10%. At December 31, 2023, the effective interest rate was 9.69%. The obligations of the Company with respect to the issuances of the trust preferred securities represent a full and unconditional guarantee by the Parent of each trust’s obligations with respect to the trust preferred securities.
The margin ranges from 4.00% to 4.10%. At December 31, 2024, the effective interest rate was 8.82%. The obligations of the Company with respect to the issuances of the trust preferred securities represent a full and unconditional guarantee by the Parent of each trust’s obligations with respect to the trust preferred securities.
Changes in interest expense were primarily due to changes in the Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) published by CME Group Benchmark Administration Limited (“CME”), as the interest rates on the Company’s outstanding junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures (“Junior Subordinated Debentures”) and the revolving credit facility are directly related to SOFR.
Changes in interest expense were primarily due to changes in the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) published by CME Group Benchmark Administration Limited, as the interest rates on the Company’s outstanding junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures (“Junior Subordinated Debentures”) and the revolving credit facility utilize SOFR as the reference rate.
The Credit Agreement requires the Company to comply with certain covenants, including a debt to capital ratio that restricts the Company from incurring consolidated indebtedness that exceeds 35% of the Company’s consolidated capitalization at any time. The Credit Agreement also contains customary representations and warranties and events of default.
The Credit Agreement requires the Company to comply with certain covenants, including a debt to capital ratio that restricts the Company from incurring consolidated indebtedness that exceeds 35% of the Company’s consolidated capitalization at any time and maintaining a minimum consolidated net worth, as previously mentioned. The Credit Agreement also contains customary representations and warranties and events of default.
The combined ratio is divided into two components, the loss ratio (the ratio of losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred to premiums earned) and the expense ratio (the ratio of expenses incurred to premiums earned). 19 Table of Contents Insurance benefits incurred at American Southern increased $3.8 million, or 8.1%, during 2023 as compared to 2022.
The combined ratio is divided into two components, the loss ratio (the ratio of losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred to premiums earned) and the expense ratio (the ratio of expenses incurred to premiums earned). 18 Table of Contents Insurance benefits incurred at American Southern increased $4.8 million, or 9.3%, during 2024 as compared to 2023.
A net total of $4.0 million and $3.9 million were paid to the Parent under the tax sharing agreement in 2023 and 2022, respectively.
A net total of $4.4 million and $4.0 million were paid to the Parent under the tax sharing agreement in 2024 and 2023, respectively.
During periods in which the loss ratio decreases, commissions and underwriting expenses will generally increase, and conversely, during periods in which the loss ratio increases, commissions and underwriting expenses will generally decrease. In 2023, variable commissions at American Southern decreased $1.4 million as compared to 2022 due to an increase in loss ratios from certain accounts subject to variable commissions.
During periods in which the loss ratio decreases, commissions and underwriting expenses will generally increase, and conversely, during periods in which the loss ratio increases, commissions and underwriting expenses will generally decrease. In 2024, variable commissions at American Southern decreased $1.1 million as compared to 2023 due to an unfavorable loss experience from accounts subject to variable commissions.
At December 31, 2023, the Parent’s insurance subsidiaries had an aggregate statutory surplus of $90.1 million. Dividends were paid to Atlantic American by its subsidiaries totaling $8.4 million and $7.2 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Parent provides certain administrative, purchasing and other services to each of its subsidiaries.
At December 31, 2024, the Parent’s insurance subsidiaries had an aggregate statutory surplus of $80.1 million. Dividends were paid to Atlantic American by its subsidiaries totaling $9.0 million and $8.4 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively. The Parent provides certain administrative, purchasing and other services to each of its subsidiaries.
Also contributing to differences between the effective tax rate and the federal statutory income tax rate were the adjustment for prior years’ estimates to actual that are generally updated at the completion of the third quarter of each fiscal year and were $0.1 million in the year ended December 31, 2022.
Also contributing to differences between the effective tax rate and the federal statutory income tax rate was the adjustment for prior years’ estimates to actual that are generally updated at the completion of the third quarter of each fiscal year and were $35 thousand in the year ended December 31, 2024.
At December 31, 2023, the Parent had approximately $4.7 million of unrestricted cash and investments. 21 Table of Contents Dividend payments to a parent corporation by its wholly owned insurance subsidiaries are subject to annual limitations and are restricted to 10% of statutory surplus or statutory earnings before recognizing realized investment gains of the individual insurance subsidiaries.
At December 31, 2024, the Parent had approximately $5.6 million of unrestricted cash and investments. Dividend payments to a parent corporation by its wholly owned insurance subsidiaries are subject to annual limitations and are restricted to 10% of statutory surplus or statutory earnings before recognizing realized investment gains of the individual insurance subsidiaries.
Refer to Note 1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for details regarding the Company’s significant accounting policies. 17 Table of Contents Overall Corporate Results Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 (In thousands) Revenue Property and Casualty: American Southern $ 72,846 $ 73,949 Life and Health: Bankers Fidelity 114,199 114,015 Corporate and Other (252 ) (113 ) Total revenue $ 186,793 $ 187,851 Income (loss) before income taxes Property and Casualty: American Southern $ 5,085 $ 6,613 Life and Health: Bankers Fidelity 4,722 3,812 Corporate and Other (10,372 ) (8,329 ) Income (loss) before income taxes $ (565 ) $ 2,096 Net income (loss) $ (171 ) $ 1,525 Management also considers and evaluates performance by analyzing the non-GAAP measure operating income or loss, and believes it is a useful metric for investors, potential investors, securities analysts and others because it isolates the “core” operating results of the Company before considering certain items that are either beyond the control of management (such as income tax expense, which is subject to timing, regulatory and rate changes depending on the timing of the associated revenues and expenses) or are not expected to regularly impact the Company’s operational results (such as any realized or unrealized investment gains or losses, which are not a part of the Company’s primary operations and are, to a limited extent, subject to discretion in terms of timing of realization).
Refer to Note 1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for details regarding the Company’s significant accounting policies. 16 Table of Contents Overall Corporate Results Year Ended December 31, 2024 2023 (In thousands) Revenue Property and Casualty: American Southern $ 72,220 $ 72,846 Life and Health: Bankers Fidelity 116,097 114,199 Corporate and Other (90 ) (252 ) Total revenue $ 188,227 $ 186,793 Income (loss) before income taxes Property and Casualty: American Southern $ 888 $ 5,085 Life and Health: Bankers Fidelity 4,155 4,722 Corporate and Other (10,307 ) (10,372 ) Loss before income taxes $ (5,264 ) $ (565 ) Net loss $ (4,268 ) $ (171 ) Management also considers and evaluates performance by analyzing the non-GAAP measure operating income or loss, and believes it is a useful metric for investors, potential investors, securities analysts and others because it isolates the “core” operating results of the Company before considering certain items that are either beyond the control of management (such as income tax expense, which is subject to timing, regulatory and rate changes depending on the timing of the associated revenues and expenses) or are not expected to regularly impact the Company’s operational results (such as any realized or unrealized investment gains or losses, which are not a part of the Company’s primary operations and are, to a limited extent, subject to discretion in terms of timing of realization).
A reconciliation of net income, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, to operating income is as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 (In thousands) Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measure Net income (loss) $ (171 ) $ 1,525 Income tax expense (benefit) (394 ) 571 Realized investment gains, net (70 ) (30 ) Unrealized losses on equity securities, net 2,177 7,562 Non-GAAP operating income $ 1,542 $ 9,628 On a consolidated basis, the Company had net loss of $0.2 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, in 2023, compared to net income of $1.5 million, or $0.06 per diluted share, in 2022.
A reconciliation of net loss, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, to operating income (loss) is as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2024 2023 (In thousands) Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measure Net loss $ (4,268 ) $ (171 ) Income tax benefit (996 ) (394 ) Realized investment gains, net (1,210 ) (70 ) Unrealized losses on equity securities, net 1,516 2,177 Non-GAAP operating income (loss) $ (4,958 ) $ 1,542 On a consolidated basis, the Company had net loss of $4.3 million, or $(0.23) per diluted share, in 2024, compared to net loss of $0.2 million, or $(0.03) per diluted share, in 2023.
BFLIC may be required to post additional acceptable forms of collateral for any borrowings that it makes in the future from the FHLB. As of December 31, 2023, BFLIC does not have any outstanding borrowings from the FHLB.
BFLIC may be required to post additional acceptable forms of collateral for any borrowings that it makes in the future from the FHLB.
Management continually evaluates the Company’s investment portfolio and, as may be determined to be appropriate, makes adjustments for impairments and/or will divest investments. See Note 2 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
The net realized investment gains in 2023 were primarily attributable to gains from the sale of fixed maturities. Management continually evaluates the Company’s investment portfolio and, as may be determined to be appropriate, makes adjustments for impairments and/or will divest investments. See Note 2 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes, for the periods indicated, American Southern’s net earned premiums by line of business: Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 (In thousands) Automobile liability $ 38,821 $ 33,981 Automobile physical damage 15,046 21,069 General liability 5,758 5,871 Surety 6,303 6,039 Other lines 2,515 3,316 Total $ 68,443 $ 70,276 Net earned premiums decreased $1.8 million, or 2.6%, during 2023 as compared to 2022.
The following table summarizes, for the periods indicated, American Southern’s net earned premiums by line of business: Year Ended December 31, 2024 2023 (In thousands) Automobile liability $ 39,788 $ 38,821 Automobile physical damage 13,464 15,046 General liability 5,990 5,758 Surety 5,809 6,303 Other lines 2,638 2,515 Total $ 67,689 $ 68,443 Net earned premiums decreased $0.8 million, or 1.1%, during 2024 as compared to 2023.
Gross earned premiums from the Medicare supplement line of business decreased $15.4 million, or 10.4 %, in 2023 as compared to 2022, due primarily to non-renewals exceeding the level of new business writings as the existing block of business has incurred rate increases.
The decrease in gross earned premiums was primarily attributable to the decrease in gross earned premiums from the Medicare supplement line of business due primarily to non-renewals exceeding the level of new business writings as the existing block of business has incurred rate increases.
Income Taxes The primary difference between the effective tax rate and the federal statutory income tax rate for 2023 resulted from the adjustment for prior years’ estimates to actual of $0.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2023, which included the return to provision adjustment that is generally updated at the completion of the third quarter of each fiscal year and an adjustment for partnership valuation.
The current estimated DRD is adjusted as underlying factors change and can vary from estimates based on, but not limited to, actual distributions from investments as well as the amount of the Company’s taxable income. 2024 The primary difference between the effective tax rate and the federal statutory income tax rate for 2023 resulted from the adjustment for prior years’ estimates to actual of $0.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2023, which included the return to provision adjustment that is generally updated at the completion of the third quarter of each fiscal year and an adjustment for partnership valuation.
Partially offsetting the decrease in cash and cash equivalents was an increase in net cash provided by operating activities of $2.6 million. 22 Table of Contents The Company believes that existing cash balances as well as the dividends, fees, and tax-sharing payments it expects to receive from its subsidiaries and, if needed, additional borrowings from financial institutions, will enable the Company to meet its liquidity requirements for the next 12 months and thereafter for the foreseeable future.
The Company believes that existing cash balances as well as the dividends, fees, and tax-sharing payments it expects to receive from its subsidiaries and, if needed, additional borrowings from financial institutions, will enable the Company to meet its liquidity requirements for the next 12 months and thereafter for the foreseeable future.
The Company’s primary sources of cash are written premiums, investment income and proceeds from the sale and maturity of its invested assets, as well as borrowings from time to time under our revolving credit facility.
Current and expected patterns of claim frequency and severity may change from period to period, but generally are expected to continue within historical ranges. The Company’s primary sources of cash are written premiums, investment income and proceeds from the sale and maturity of its invested assets, as well as borrowings from time to time under our revolving credit facility.
Fixed commissions decreased as a result of the decline in written premiums during 2023. Also contributing to the decrease in expense ratio was American Southern’s use of a variable commission structure with certain agents, which compensates the participating agents in relation to the loss ratios of the business they write.
The decrease in the expense ratio was primarily due to American Southern’s use of a variable commission structure with certain agents, which compensates the participating agents in relation to the loss ratios of the business they write.
Unrealized Losses on Equity Securities, Net Investments in equity securities are measured at fair value at the end of the reporting period, with any changes in fair value reported in net income during the period. The Company recognized net unrealized losses on equity securities of $2.2 million and $7.6 million during the years ended December 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Unrealized Losses on Equity Securities, Net Investments in equity securities are measured at fair value at the end of the reporting period, with any changes in fair value reported in net income during the period.
Other contributing factors to the differences between the effective tax rate and the federal statutory income tax rate were permanent differences related to meals and entertainment and the dividends-received deduction (“DRD”).
Another contributing factor to the differences between the effective tax rate and the federal statutory income tax rate was a permanent difference related to dividends-received deduction (“DRD”).
On May 12, 2021, the Company entered into a Revolving Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with Truist Bank as the lender (the “Lender”). The Credit Agreement provides for an unsecured $10.0 million revolving credit facility that matures on April 12, 2024.
The Revolving Credit Agreement provides for an unsecured $10.0 million revolving credit facility that originally matured on April 12, 2024. On March 22, 2024, the Company entered into a First Amendment (the "Amendment") to its Revolving Credit Agreement (as amended, the “Credit Agreement”) with the Lender.
As a percentage of premiums, insurance benefits and losses incurred were 74.5% in 2023 as compared to 67.1% in 2022. The increase in the loss ratio was mainly due to overall inflation on claims and increased severity of losses reported from certain governmental programs within the automobile liability line of business.
As a percentage of premiums, insurance benefits and losses incurred were 82.4% in 2024 as compared to 74.5% in 2023. The increase in the loss ratio was mainly due to an increase in the frequency and severity of claims in the automobile liability line of business.
American Southern’s ceded premiums are typically determined as a percentage of earned premiums and generally increase or decrease as earned premiums increase or decrease. The decrease in ceded premiums was primarily attributable to the decrease in earned premiums in the automobile physical damage line of business, as well as decreased ceding rates due to increased retention.
American Southern’s ceded premiums are typically determined as a percentage of earned premiums and generally increase or decrease as earned premiums increase or decrease or retentions levels change. The increase in ceded premiums was primarily attributable to an increase in lines of business with higher ceding rates.
Commissions and underwriting expenses increased $4.1 million, or 12.0%, during 2023 as compared to 2022. As a percentage of earned premiums, these expenses were 34.4% in 2023 as compared to 29.5% in 2022.
Commissions and underwriting expenses decreased $1.2 million, or 7.1%, during 2024 as compared to 2023. As a percentage of premiums, these expenses were 23.0% in 2024 as compared to 24.5% in 2023.
Partially offsetting the decrease in net earned premiums was an increase in earned premiums in the automobile liability line of business due mainly to rate increases and a retrospective premium adjustment in a governmental program.
Partially offsetting the decrease in net earned premiums was an increase in earned premiums in the automobile liability line of business due mainly to a new government program which began in the fourth quarter of 2023.
Also contributing to the increase in the loss ratio were increased losses in the general liability line of business from artisan contractor business. Partially offsetting the increase in the loss ratio was a decrease in losses related to the automobile physical damage line of business due to a decrease in exposure.
Also contributing to the increase in the loss ratio was an increase in the automobile physical damage line of business due to an increase in claims costs. Partially offsetting the increase in the loss ratio was a decrease in the general liability line of business due to favorable claim reserve development.
Also contributing to the differences between the effective tax rate and the federal statutory income tax rate was a permanent difference related to meals and entertainment. The primary differences between the effective tax rate and the federal statutory income tax rate for 2022 resulted from a permanent difference related to penalties and fines incurred of $0.1 million.
Income Taxes The primary difference between the effective tax rate and the federal statutory income tax rate for 2024 resulted from a permanent difference related to meals and entertainment.
The decrease in premium revenue was primarily attributable to a decrease in Medicare supplement insurance premiums within the life and health operations. Also contributing to the decrease in premium revenue was a decrease in earned premiums in the automobile physical damage line of business due to a reduction in the number of programs.
The decrease in premium revenue was primarily attributable to a decrease in earned premiums in the automobile physical damage line of business due to a decline in demand within the trucking industry within the property and casualty operations.
A more detailed analysis of the operating companies and other corporate activities follows. 18 Table of Contents UNDERWRITING RESULTS American Southern The following table summarizes, for the periods indicated, American Southern’s premiums, losses, expenses and underwriting ratios: Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 (Dollars in thousands) Gross written premiums $ 77,567 $ 79,218 Ceded premiums (5,902 ) (6,547 ) Net written premiums $ 71,665 $ 72,671 Net earned premiums $ 68,443 $ 70,276 Insurance benefits and losses incurred 51,015 47,175 Commissions and underwriting expenses 16,746 20,161 Underwriting income $ 682 $ 2,940 Loss ratio 74.5 % 67.1 % Expense ratio 24.5 28.7 Combined ratio 99.0 % 95.8 % Gross written premiums at American Southern decreased $1.7 million, or 2.1%, during 2023 as compared to 2022.
UNDERWRITING RESULTS American Southern The following table summarizes, for the periods indicated, American Southern’s premiums, losses, expenses and underwriting ratios: Year Ended December 31, 2024 2023 (Dollars in thousands) Gross written premiums $ 73,671 $ 77,567 Ceded premiums (5,979 ) (5,902 ) Net written premiums $ 67,692 $ 71,665 Net earned premiums $ 67,689 $ 68,443 Insurance benefits and losses incurred 55,767 51,015 Commissions and underwriting expenses 15,565 16,746 Underwriting income (loss) $ (3,643 ) $ 682 Loss ratio 82.4 % 74.5 % Expense ratio 23.0 24.5 Combined ratio 105.4 % 99.0 % Gross written premiums at American Southern decreased $3.9 million, or 5.0%, during 2024 as compared to 2023.
The decrease in net earned premiums was primarily attributable to a decrease in earned premiums in the automobile physical damage line of business due to a reduction in the number of agencies as previously mentioned. Also contributing to the decrease was a decline in earned premiums in the inland marine line of business resulting from reduced cargo production.
The decrease in net earned premiums was primarily attributable to a decrease in earned premiums in the automobile physical damage line of business due to a decline in demand within the trucking industry as previously mentioned.
This discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere herein.
This discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere herein. Operating results achieved in any historical period are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected in any future period.
The decrease in gross written premiums was primarily attributable to the decrease in premiums written in the automobile physical damage line of business due to a reduction in the number of agencies.
The decrease in gross written premiums was primarily attributable to the decrease in premiums written in the automobile liability line of business due to the non-renewal of a program, as well as a decrease in premiums written in the automobile physical damage line of business due to a decline in demand within the trucking industry.
Bankers Fidelity The following summarizes, for the periods indicated, Bankers Fidelity’s premiums, losses and expenses: Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 (Dollars in thousands) Medicare supplement $ 133,343 $ 148,747 Other health products 14,373 12,389 Life insurance 18,659 15,867 Gross earned premiums 166,375 177,003 Ceded premiums (55,993 ) (61,839 ) Net earned premiums 110,382 115,164 Insurance benefits and losses incurred 71,485 76,281 Commissions and underwriting expenses 37,992 33,922 Total expenses 109,477 110,203 Underwriting income $ 905 $ 4,961 Loss ratio 64.8 % 66.2 % Expense ratio 34.4 29.5 Combined ratio 99.2 % 95.7 % Net earned premium revenue at Bankers Fidelity decreased $4.8 million, or 4.2%, during 2023 as compared to 2022.
Bankers Fidelity The following summarizes, for the periods indicated, Bankers Fidelity’s premiums, losses and expenses: Year Ended December 31, 2024 2023 (Dollars in thousands) Gross earned premiums $ 164,291 $ 166,375 Ceded premiums (53,249 ) (55,993 ) Net earned premiums 111,042 110,382 Insurance benefits and losses incurred 70,064 71,485 Commissions and underwriting expenses 41,878 37,992 Total expenses 111,942 109,477 Underwriting income $ (900 ) $ 905 Loss ratio 63.1 % 64.8 % Expense ratio 37.7 34.4 Combined ratio 100.8 % 99.2 % Gross earned premiums at Bankers Fidelity decreased $2.1 million, or 1.3%, during 2024 as compared to 2023.
Cash and cash equivalents decreased from $28.9 million at December 31, 2022 to $28.3 million at December 31, 2023. The decrease in cash and cash equivalents during 2023 was primarily attributable to a decrease in net cash used in investing activities of $3.4 million primarily as a result of investment purchases exceeding investment sales and maturity of securities.
Also contributing to the increase in cash and cash equivalents was net cash provided by investing activities of $2.3 million primarily as a result of investment sales and maturity of securities exceeding investment purchases.
Changes in unrealized gains on equity securities for the applicable periods are primarily the result of fluctuations in the market value of certain of the Company’s equity securities. Interest Expense Interest expense increased $1.3 million, or 67.5%, in 2023 as compared to 2022.
The Company recognized net unrealized losses on equity securities of $1.5 million and net unrealized losses of $2.2 million during the years ended December 2024 and 2023, respectively. Changes in unrealized losses on equity securities for the applicable periods are primarily the result of fluctuations in the market value of certain of the Company’s equity securities.
Partially offsetting this increase was a decrease in individual life products premium, resulting from the redemption and settlement of existing individual life policy obligations exceeding the level of new individual life sales. Premiums ceded decreased $5.8 million, or 9.5%, in 2023 from 2022. The decrease in ceded premiums was due to a decrease in Medicare supplement premiums subject to reinsurance.
Also contributing to the decrease in gross earned premiums was a decrease in gross earned premiums in the individual life line of business, resulting from the redemption and settlement of existing individual life policy obligations exceeding the level of new individual life sales.
The Company had net realized investment gains of $0.1 million in 2023 as compared to net realized investment gains of $0.03 million in 2022. The net realized investment gains in 2023 and 2022 were primarily attributable to gains from the sale of fixed maturities.
The decrease in investment income was primarily attributable to a net loss in a certain investment within the Company's limited liability companies of $0.4 million. The Company had net realized investment gains of $1.2 million in 2024 as compared to net realized investment gains of $0.1 million in 2023.
The increase in investment income was primarily attributable to an increase in investment income related to fixed maturities and equity securities. Partially offsetting this increase was a decrease in the equity in earnings from investments in the Company's limited partnerships and limited liability companies of $0.6 million.
Partially offsetting this decrease was an increase in net realized investment gains mainly due to gains of $1.2 million from the sale of the Company's interest in a certain limited liability company as well as gains from the sale of a number of the Company's investments in fixed maturities.
Partially offsetting the decrease in premium revenue was an increase in earned premiums in the automobile liability line of business due mainly to rate increases and a retrospective premium adjustment in a governmental program. Operating income was $1.5 million in 2023 as compared to $9.6 million in 2022.
Partially offsetting the decrease in premium revenue was an increase in earned premiums in the group accident and health, group life and the other individual health lines of business due to new sales within the life and health operations. 17 Table of Contents Operating loss was $5.0 million in 2024 as compared to operating income of $1.5 million in 2023.
Liquidity and Capital Resources The primary cash needs of the Company are for the payment of claims and operating expenses, maintaining adequate statutory capital and surplus levels, and meeting debt service requirements. Current and expected patterns of claim frequency and severity may change from period to period, but generally are expected to continue within historical ranges.
Also contributing to the differences between the effective tax rate and the federal statutory income tax rate was a permanent difference related to meals and entertainment. 20 Table of Contents Liquidity and Capital Resources The primary cash needs of the Company are for the payment of claims and operating expenses, maintaining adequate statutory capital and surplus levels, and meeting debt service requirements.
Commissions and underwriting expenses decreased $3.4 million, or 16.9%, during 2023 as compared to 2022. As a percentage of premiums, these expenses were 24.5% in 2023 as compared to 28.7% in 2022. The decrease in the expense ratio was primarily due to the decrease in fixed and variable commissions.
These decreases were partially offset by higher incurred claims in the other health line of business. Commissions and underwriting expenses increased $3.9 million, or 10.2%, during 2024 as compared to 2023. As a percentage of earned premiums, these expenses were 37.7% in 2024 as compared to 34.4% in 2023.
Partially offsetting this decrease was a decline in unrealized losses on equity securities. Total revenue was $186.8 million in 2023 as compared to $187.9 million in 2022. Premium revenue decreased to $178.8 million in 2023 from $185.4 million in 2022.
Total revenue was $188.2 million in 2024 as compared to $186.8 million in 2023. Premium revenue decreased slightly to $178.7 million in 2024 from $178.8 million in 2023.
The increase in the expense ratio was primarily due to an increase in administrative costs related to growth in the group and individual health lines of business, coupled with increased Medicare supplement servicing costs. 20 Table of Contents Net Investment Income and Realized Gains Investment income increased $0.1 million, or 1.3%, in 2023 as compared to 2022.
The increase in the expense ratio was primarily due to an increase in administrative costs related to the growth in the group lines of business.
The decrease in operating income was primarily due to a decline in premium revenue and an increase in losses and expenses as a percentage of premiums, as discussed above.
The decrease in operating income was primarily due to an unfavorable loss experience in the property and casualty operations due to the frequency and severity of claims in the automobile liability line of business as well as an increase in claims costs in the automobile physical damage line of business as discussed above.
Partially offsetting the decrease in gross written premiums was an increase in premiums written in the automobile liability line of business resulting from new business, rate increases, and retrospective premium adjustments. Ceded premiums decreased $0.6 million, or 9.9%, during 2023 as compared to 2022.
Partially offsetting the increase in net earned premiums was a decrease in the Medicare supplement line of business primarily to non-renewals exceeding the level of new business writings as the existing block of business has incurred rate increases. Insurance benefits incurred decreased $1.4 million, or 2.0%, during 2024 as compared to 2023.
The decrease in the loss ratio was primarily due to improved rate adequacy and a decrease in the number of incurred claims within the Medicare supplement line of business. Also contributing to the decrease in loss ratio was an improvement in the other health lines profitability. These decreases were offset by higher incurred claims on our life lines of business.
As a percentage of premiums, benefits and losses were 63.1% in 2024 as compared to 64.8% in 2023. The decrease in the loss ratio was primarily due to improved loss experience within the group life line of business as well as the other individual health line of business.