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UNITED FIRE GROUP INC

For the period ended Jun 30, 2024. Filed Aug 7, 2024.

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A company's report for each of its first three quarters. The financial statements are not audited. It shows how the business has moved since the last annual report, and what management says changed.

Jun 30, 2024 · Filed Aug 7, 2024

UFCS$48.87+2.4%Stored close · as of Nov 9, 2026

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Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

UNITED FIRE GROUP, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share amounts or as otherwise noted)

NOTE 1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION

Nature of Business

United Fire Group, Inc. ("UFG," the "Registrant," the "Company," "we," "us," or "our") and its consolidated subsidiaries and affiliates are engaged in the business of writing property and casualty insurance through a network of independent agencies. Our insurance company subsidiaries are licensed as property and casualty insurers in 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Basis of Presentation

The financial information for interim periods presented in these Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Regulation S-X promulgated by the SEC. Certain financial information that is included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, including certain financial statement footnote disclosures, is not required by the rules and regulations of the SEC for interim financial reporting and has been condensed or omitted.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The financial statement categories that are most dependent on management estimates and assumptions include: investments; deferred policy acquisition costs; reinsurance receivables and recoverables; loss settlement expenses; and pension benefit obligations.

Management believes the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements contain all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented. All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The results reported for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that may be expected for the year. The Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed on February 29, 2024.

Segment Information

UFG hasone reporting segment, which is consistent with and reflects the manner by which our Chief Operating Decision Maker views and manages the business. The property and casualty insurance business profit or loss is consistent with consolidated reporting as disclosed on the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. We analyze the property and casualty insurance business results based on profitability (i.e., loss ratios), expenses and return on equity. The Company's property and casualty insurance business was determined using a management approach to make decisions on operating matters, including allocating resources, assessing performance, determining which products to market and sell, determining distribution networks with insurance agents and monitoring the regulatory environment. The property and casualty insurance business products have similar economic characteristics and use a similar marketing and distribution strategy with our independent agents. We will continue to evaluate our operations on the basis of both statutory accounting principles prescribed or permitted by our states of domicile and GAAP.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash, money market accounts and non-negotiable certificates of deposit with original maturities of three months or less.

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs ("DAC")

Deferred policy acquisition costs include commissions, premium taxes and variable underwriting and policy issue expenses, which are incremental direct costs of successful contract acquisitions. Property and casualty insurance policy acquisition costs deferred are amortized ratably as the related premium revenue is recognized. The following table is a summary of the components of DAC, including the related amortization recognized for the six-month period ended June 30, 2024.

Total
Recorded asset at beginning of period$126,532
Underwriting costs deferred150,591
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs(133,079)
Recorded asset at June 30, 2024$144,044

The method followed in computing DAC limits the amount of such deferred costs to their estimated realizable value. This takes into account the premium to be earned, losses and loss settlement expenses expected to be incurred and certain other costs expected to be incurred as the premium is earned.

Other Intangible Assets

Our other intangible assets, which consist primarily of agency relationships, trade names, state insurance licenses, and software, are being amortized using the straight-line method over periods ranging fromtwo years to 15 years, with the exception of state insurance licenses, which are indefinite-lived and not amortized.

Long Term Debt

The Company issues debt through private placement transactions in the form of senior unsecured notes and surplus notes. The notes are presented as a long-term debt liability in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and as a financing activity in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Costs incurred in the issuance of debt are capitalized and amortized over the life of the non-cancellable period of the debt. The capitalization of such debt issuance costs are included as an offset to the long-term debt liability and the related amortization is included in interest expense.

Interest payments under the long-term debt are paid quarterly each year. The interest rate will be defined in each respective Note Purchase Agreement. Interest is included in accrued expenses and other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and as interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. For more information on long-term debt refer to Note 8 "Debt."

Income Taxes

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are established based on differences between the financial statement bases of assets and liabilities and the tax bases of those same assets and liabilities, using the currently enacted statutory tax rates. Deferred income tax expense is measured by the year-to-year change in the net deferred tax asset or liability, except for certain changes in deferred tax amounts that affect stockholders' equity and do not impact federal income tax expense.

We reported a consolidated federal income tax expense of $1,747 for the six-month period ended June 30, 2024 compared to an income tax benefit of $16,540 during the same period of 2023. Our effective tax rate for 2024 and 2023 is different than the federal statutory rate of 21 percent, due principally to the net effect of tax-exempt municipal bond interest income.

The Company performs a quarterly review of its tax positions and makes a determination of whether it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained upon examination. If, based on this review, it appears not more likely than not that the positions will be sustained, the Company will calculate any unrecognized tax benefits and, if necessary, calculate and accrue any related interest and penalties. We didnot recognize any liability for unrecognized tax benefits at June 30, 2024 or December 31, 2023. In addition, we have not accrued for interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits. However, if interest and penalties would need to be accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits, such amounts would be recognized as a component of federal income tax expense.

Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when management believes it is more likely than not that some, or all, of the deferred taxes will not be realized. After considering all positive and negative evidence of taxable income in the carryback and carryforward periods and our tax planning strategy of holding debt securities with unrealized losses to maturity or recovery, we believe it is more likely than not that all the deferred assets will be realized. As a result, we haveno valuation allowance at June 30, 2024 or December 31, 2023.

For each of the six-month periods ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, we made payments for income taxes totaling $9,612 and $1,324, respectively. We didnot receive a federal tax refund for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2024 and 2023.

We file a consolidated federal income tax return. We also file income tax returns in various state jurisdictions. We are no longer subject to federal or state income tax examination for years before 2018.

Leases

The Company determines if a contract contains a lease at inception of the contract. The Company's inventory of leases consists of operating leases which are recorded as a lease obligation liability disclosed in the "Accrued expenses and other liabilities" line on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and as a lease right-of-use asset disclosed in the "Other assets" line on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company's operating leases consist of office space, vehicles, computer equipment and office equipment. The lease right-of-use asset represents the Company's right to use each underlying asset for the lease term and the lease obligation liability represents the Company's obligation over the lease term. The Company's lease obligation is recorded at the present value of the lease payments based on the term of the applied lease. Short-term leases of 12 months or less are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and lease payments are recognized on the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. For more information on leases refer to Note 10 "Leases."

Credit Losses

The Company recognizes credit losses for our available-for-sale fixed-maturity portfolio, reinsurance receivables, mortgage loans and premium receivables by setting up allowances which are remeasured each reporting period and recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income.

For our available-for-sale fixed-maturity portfolio an allowance for credit losses is recorded net of available-for-sale fixed maturities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and a corresponding credit loss recognized as a realized loss or gain in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. The Company determines if an allowance for credit losses is recorded based on a number of factors including current economic conditions, management's expectations of future economic conditions and performance indicators, such as market value versus amortized cost, investment spreads widening or contracting, rating actions, payment and default history. For more information on credit losses and the allowance for credit losses for our available-for-sale fixed-maturity portfolio, see Note 2 "Summary of Investments."

An allowance for mortgage loan losses is established based on historical loss information of the collective pool of the Company's commercial mortgage loan investments which have similar risk characteristics. To calculate the allowance for mortgage loan losses, the Company starts with historical loan experience to predict the future expected losses and then layers on a market-linked adjustment. On a quarterly basis, quantitative credit risk metrics, including, for example, cash-flows, rent rolls and financial statements are reviewed for each loan to determine if it is performing in line with its expectations. This allowance is presented as a separate line in the Consolidated Balance Sheets beneath the asset value as well as presented net and recorded through "Net investment gains (losses)" in the

Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. For more information on credit losses and the allowance for credit losses for our investment in mortgage loans see Note 3 "Fair Value of Financial Instruments."

For reinsurance receivables, the Company's model estimates expected credit loss by multiplying the exposure at default by both the probability of default and loss given default ("LGD"). The LGD is estimated by the rating of the reinsurer, historical relationship with UFG, existence of letters of credit and known regulation for which the Company may be held accountable. The ultimate LGD percentage is estimated after considering Moody's experience with unsecured year one bond recovery rates from 1983-2017. The allowance calculated as of June 30, 2024 is recorded through the line "Reinsurance receivables and recoverables" in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and through the line "Other underwriting expenses" in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Other Comprehensive Income. As of June 30, 2024, the Company had a credit loss allowance for reinsurance receivables of $102.

Rollforward of credit loss allowance for reinsurance receivables:
As of
Beginning balance, January 1, 2024$97
Current-period provision for expected credit losses5
Write-off charged against the allowance, if any—
Recoveries of amounts previously written off, if any—
Ending balance of the allowance for reinsurance receivables, June 30, 2024$102

With respect to premiums receivable, the Company utilizes an aging method to estimate credit losses. An allowance for doubtful accounts is based on a periodic evaluation of the aging and collectability of amounts due from agents and policyholders. "Premiums receivable" are presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets net of an estimated allowance for doubtful accounts and recorded through "Other underwriting expenses" in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income.

Subsequent Events

In the preparation of the accompanying financial statements, the Company has evaluated all material subsequent events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date through the date on which the financial statements were issued for potential recognition or disclosure in the Company's financial statements.

In July 2024, the Company identified rating errors related to umbrella and general liability products that resulted in an overcharge to certain policyholders. Corrective actions are currently underway, and we are voluntarily notifying and cooperating with state insurance regulators to determine the appropriate extent of refunds to impacted policyholders. We may receive requests for information in the future from regulators in connection with this matter.

As a result of this issue, the Company recorded an estimated liability of $3.2 million to cover our anticipated exposure for this matter based on information available to management at this time. This amount is recorded through the line "Other income (loss)" in the Consolidated Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income. However, our estimate of the anticipated exposure may change as additional information becomes available and we continue our discussions with regulatory agencies. The Company is reviewing other business lines to determine whether other similar issues exist. Fines, penalties or further refunds related to the foregoing are reasonably possible, but the amount of such losses, if any, cannot be estimated at this time.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Adopted Pronouncements

We have not adopted any Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) in the current period nor year-to-date.

Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted

In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures. The amendments in this update improve reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expense categories that are regularly provided to the Chief Operating Decision Maker ("CODM") and included in each reported measure of a segment’s profit or loss. In addition, the amendments enhance interim disclosure requirements that are currently required annually, clarify circumstances in which an entity can disclose multiple segment measures of profit or loss, and contain other disclosure requirements. Additionally, the amendments require that entities with a single reportable segment must now provide all the disclosures previously required under Topic 280. The amendments in this update are incremental to the current requirements of Topic 280 and do not change how a public entity identifies its operating segments, aggregates those operating segments, or applies the quantitative thresholds to determine its reportable segments. The enhanced segment disclosure requirements apply retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. The significant segment expense and other segment item amounts disclosed in prior periods shall be based on the significant segment expense categories identified and disclosed in the period of adoption. The amendments in this update are effective for all public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted, and the updates must be applied retrospectively to all periods presented in the financial statements. We do not expect to early adopt this standard and are in the process of assessing its impact on our disclosures upon adoption.

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures. The amendments in this update enhance the transparency of the income tax disclosures by expanding on the disclosures required annually. The amendments require entities to disclose in their rate reconciliation table additional categories of information about federal, state, and foreign income taxes, in addition to providing details about the reconciling items in some categories if above a quantitative threshold. Additionally, the amendments require annual disclosure of income taxes paid (net of refunds received) disaggregated by jurisdiction based on a quantitative threshold. The amendments in this update are effective for public business entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted for annual financial statements that have not yet been issued or made available for issuance. The amendments should be applied on a prospective basis, and retrospective application is permitted. We do not expect to early adopt this standard and are in the process of assessing its impact on our disclosures upon adoption.

NOTE 2. SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS

Fair Value of Investments

A reconciliation of the amortized cost to fair value of investments in our available-for-sale fixed maturity portfolio, presented on a consolidated basis, as of June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, is provided below:

June 30, 2024
Type of InvestmentAmortized CostGross Unrealized GainGross Unrealized LossAllowance for Credit LossesFair Value
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
Fixed maturities:
Bonds
U.S. Treasury$51,211$56$618$—$50,649
U.S. government agency97,438579,154—88,341
States, municipalities and political subdivisions
General obligations:
Midwest38,918—469—38,449
Northeast7,121—122—6,999
South36,875—768—36,107
West58,78935939—57,885
Special revenue:
Midwest64,4402729—63,713
Northeast50,01223767—49,268
South121,547212,932—118,636
West86,24681,485—84,769
Foreign bonds16,210111,083—15,138
Public utilities141,20228610,720—130,768
Corporate bonds
Energy41,87932,245—39,637
Industrials58,647865,011—53,722
Consumer goods and services101,945528,675—93,322
Health care31,795—4,939—26,856
Technology, media and telecommunications82,279—7,305—74,974
Financial services233,0998526,379—227,572
Mortgage-backed securities219,1595003,380—216,279
Collateralized mortgage obligations
Government National Mortgage Association151,57716114,138—137,600
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation79,811—14,502—65,309
Federal National Mortgage Association46,395235,201—41,217
Asset-backed securities78,987123187—78,923
Total Available-for-Sale Fixed Maturities$1,895,582$2,299$101,748$—$1,796,133
December 31, 2023
Type of InvestmentAmortized CostGross Unrealized GainGross Unrealized LossAllowance for Credit LossesFair Value
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
Fixed maturities:
Bonds
U.S. Treasury$51,211$325$675$—$50,861
U.S. government agency102,5402558,302—94,493
States, municipalities and political subdivisions
General obligations:
Midwest52,712132137—52,707
Northeast11,422143—11,380
South54,56047400—54,207
West77,87423471—77,426
Special revenue:
Midwest101,037302358—100,981
Northeast52,70879560—52,227
South166,1193022,155—164,266
West102,254147836—101,565
Foreign bonds21,255—2,083—19,172
Public utilities149,73478710,054—140,467
Corporate bonds
Energy45,3512492,127—43,473
Industrials74,7607274,939—70,548
Consumer goods and services103,3152717,665—95,921
Health care37,872994,499—33,472
Technology, media and telecommunications87,0024515,665—81,788
Financial services152,3297437,3811145,690
Mortgage-backed securities23,800112,328—21,483
Collateralized mortgage obligations
Government National Mortgage Association164,6661,28212,742—153,206
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation84,8422013,177—71,685
Federal National Mortgage Association50,284334,664—45,653
Asset-backed securities3,39452487—3,831
Total Available-for-Sale Fixed Maturities$1,771,041$6,810$91,348$1$1,686,502

Maturities

The amortized cost and fair value of available-for-sale fixed maturity securities at June 30, 2024, by contractual maturity, are shown in the following tables. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations may be subject to prepayment risk and are therefore not categorized by contractual maturity.

Maturities
Available-For-Sale
June 30, 2024Amortized CostFair Value
Due in one year or less$119,744$118,585
Due after one year through five years418,408406,880
Due after five years through 10 years415,686385,942
Due after 10 years365,815345,398
Asset-backed securities78,98778,923
Mortgage-backed securities219,159216,279
Collateralized mortgage obligations277,783244,126
$1,895,582$1,796,133

Net Investment Gains and Losses

Net gains (losses) on disposition of investments are computed using the specific identification method and are included in the computation of net income. A summary of the components of net investment gains (losses) is as follows:

Three Months Ended June 30,Six Months Ended June 30,
2024202320242023
Net investment gains (losses):
Fixed maturities:
Available-for-sale$(1,382)$(248)$(4,044)$(426)
Allowance for credit losses117711
Equity securities
Net gains (losses) recognized on equity securities sold during the period—1,7351,3622,235
Unrealized gains (losses) recognized during the period on equity securities held at reporting date—(459)—(2,164)
Net gains (losses) recognized during the reporting period on equity securities—1,2761,36271
Mortgage loans allowance for credit losses—(6)10(6)
Other long-term investments152(122)241(308)
Real estate—47—47
Total net investment gains (losses)$(1,229)$1,124$(2,431)$(621)

The proceeds and gross realized gains (losses) on the sale of available-for-sale fixed maturity securities are as follows:

Three Months Ended June 30,Six Months Ended June 30,
2024202320242023
Proceeds from sales$145,621$33,941$233,999$43,809
Gross realized gains1331101,498121
Gross realized losses1,5153585,542547

Funding Commitment

Pursuant to agreements with our limited liability partnership investments, we are contractually committed through July 10, 2030 to make capital contributions upon the request of certain of the partnerships. Our remaining potential contractual obligation was $25,442 at June 30, 2024.

Unrealized Gain and Loss

A summary of the changes in net unrealized investment gain (loss) during the reporting period is as follows:

Six Months Ended June 30,
20242023
Change in net unrealized investment gain (loss)
Available-for-sale fixed maturities$(13,958)$(919)
Income tax effect2,931193
Total change in net unrealized investment gain (loss), net of tax$(11,027)$(726)

Credit Risk

An allowance for credit losses is recorded based on a number of factors including current economic conditions, management's expectations of future economic conditions and performance indicators, such as market value versus amortized cost, investment spreads widening or contracting, rating actions, payment and default history. The following table contains a rollforward of the allowance for credit losses for available-for-sale fixed maturity securities at June 30, 2024.

Rollforward of allowance for credit losses for available-for-sale fixed maturity securities:
As of
Beginning balance, January 1, 2024$1
Additions to the allowance for credit losses for which credit losses were not previously recorded
Reductions for securities sold during the period (realized)
Write-offs charged against the allowance
Recoveries of amounts previously written off(1)
Ending balance, June 30, 2024$—

Fixed Maturities Unrealized Loss

The following tables summarize our fixed maturity securities that were in an unrealized loss position reported on a consolidated basis at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023. The securities are presented by the length of time they have been continuously in an unrealized loss position. Non-credit related unrealized losses are recognized as a component of other comprehensive income and represent other market movements that are not credit related, for example interest rate changes. We have no intent to sell, and it is more likely than not that we will not be required to sell these securities until the fair value recovers to at least equal our cost basis or the securities mature.

June 30, 2024 · Less than 12 months · 12 months or longer · Total
Type of InvestmentNumber of IssuesFair ValueGross Unrealized LossNumber of IssuesFair ValueGross Unrealized LossFair ValueGross Unrealized Loss
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
Fixed maturities:
Bonds
U.S. Treasury2$24,891$478$16,856$571$41,747$618
U.S. government agency413,890912370,4939,06384,3839,154
States, municipalities and political subdivisions
General obligations
Midwest718,941123718,38834637,329469
Northeast93,5666413,433586,999122
South48,914591426,04270934,956768
West69,558461236,43489345,992939
Special revenue
Midwest1423,9032381833,97449157,877729
Northeast36,844281332,54473939,388767
South1324,5602134289,2952,719113,8552,932
West1417,6082073063,8811,27881,4891,485
Foreign bonds———511,1901,08311,1901,083
Public utilities512,65614848107,28610,572119,94210,720
Corporate bonds
Energy37,613521331,7592,19339,3722,245
Industrials12,931631940,6604,94843,5915,011
Consumer goods and services611,8601552976,5288,52088,3888,675
Health care35,41295921,4444,84426,8564,939
Technology, media and telecommunications413,2853442761,6896,96174,9747,305
Financial services1369,74955738100,6625,822170,4116,379
Mortgage-backed securities18128,3237775017,0202,603145,3433,380
Collateralized mortgage obligations
Government National Mortgage Association1139,6963044169,97513,834109,67114,138
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation12,528123262,78114,49065,30914,502
Federal National Mortgage Association35,464742030,2665,12735,7305,201
Asset-backed securities622,48311512,6127225,095187
Total Available-for-Sale Fixed Maturities150$474,675$3,812500$1,025,212$97,936$1,499,887$101,748

The unrealized losses on our investments in available-for-sale fixed maturities were the result of interest rate movements. We have no intent to sell, and it is more likely than not that we will not be required to sell these securities until the fair value recovers to at least equal our cost basis or the securities mature. In determining whether an allowance for credit losses is necessary, the expected credit loss allowance model procedurally narrows down assets, including based on risk criteria, and then targets those assets which have met specific quantitative thresholds of price decrease and operating adjusted increase in spread. Assets meeting those thresholds are processed through models, such as present value of cash flows, to determine any necessary credit allowance adjustment.

December 31, 2023 · Less than 12 months · 12 months or longer · Total
Type of InvestmentNumber of IssuesFair ValueGross Unrealized LossNumber of IssuesFair ValueGross Unrealized LossFair ValueGross Unrealized Loss
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
Fixed maturities:
Bonds
U.S. Treasury2$4,138$466$12,717$629$16,855$675
U.S. government agency310,986142371,3758,28882,3618,302
States, municipalities and political subdivisions
General obligations
Midwest1119,53461310,7377630,271137
Northeast35,371813,469358,84043
South1221,75391916,61030938,363400
West1738,204140720,06433158,268471
Special revenue
Midwest1729,5351131123,37524552,910358
Northeast615,13167824,27149339,402560
South2145,6392323266,9251,923112,5642,155
West2032,7892481638,49558871,284836
Foreign bonds———919,1722,08319,1722,083
Public utilities47,1517448111,7939,980118,94410,054
Corporate bonds
Energy———1534,3312,12734,3312,127
Industrials11,210192147,4624,92048,6724,939
Consumer goods and services414,724982868,8377,56783,5617,665
Health care13,00021126,5444,49729,5444,499
Technology, media and telecommunications13,969352762,9885,63066,9575,665
Financial services514,32722344112,5177,158126,8447,381
Mortgage-backed securities32,783334815,7582,29518,5412,328
Collateralized mortgage obligations
Government National Mortgage Association27,055274072,56512,71579,62012,742
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation22,589223166,36113,15568,95013,177
Federal National Mortgage Association25,454552031,4604,60936,9144,664
Asset-backed securities———12,962872,96287
Total Available-for-Sale Fixed Maturities137$285,342$1,608459$960,788$89,740$1,246,130$91,348

NOTE 3. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Current accounting guidance on fair value measurements includes the application of a fair value hierarchy that requires us to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. Our financial instruments that are recorded at fair value are categorized into a three-level hierarchy, which is based upon the priority of the inputs to the valuation technique. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (i.e., Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (i.e., Level 3). If the inputs used to measure fair value fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the category level is based on the lowest priority level input that is significant to the fair value measurement of the financial instrument.

Financial instruments recorded at fair value are categorized in the fair value hierarchy as follows:

Level 1: Valuations are based on unadjusted quoted prices for identical financial instruments in active markets that we have the ability to access at the measurement date.

Level 2: Valuations are based on quoted prices for similar financial instruments in active markets, in markets that are not active or on inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly for the full term of the financial instrument.

Level 3: Valuations are based on pricing or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement of the financial instrument. Such inputs may reflect management's own assumptions about the assumptions a market participant would use in pricing the financial instrument.

We review our fair value hierarchy categorizations on a quarterly basis at which time the classification of certain financial instruments may change if the input observations have changed. Transfers between levels, if any, are recorded as of the beginning of the reporting period.

To determine the fair value of the majority of our investments, we utilize prices obtained from independent, nationally recognized pricing services. We obtain one price for each security. When the pricing services cannot provide a determination of fair value for a specific security, we obtain non-binding price quotes from broker-dealers with whom we have had several years' experience and who have demonstrated knowledge of the subject security.

In order to determine the proper classification in the fair value hierarchy, we obtain and evaluate the vendors' pricing procedures and inputs used to price the security, which include unadjusted quoted market prices for identical securities, such as a New York Stock Exchange closing price, and quoted prices for identical securities in markets that are not active. For fixed maturity securities, an evaluation of interest rates and yield curves observable at commonly quoted intervals, volatility, prepayment speeds, credit risks and default rates may also be performed. We have determined that these processes and inputs result in fair values and classifications consistent with the applicable accounting guidance on fair value measurements.

When possible, we use quoted market prices to determine the fair value of fixed maturities, equity securities and short-term investments. When quoted market prices do not exist, we base estimates of fair value on market information obtained from independent pricing services and brokers or on valuation techniques that are both unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement of the financial instrument. Such inputs may reflect management's own assumptions about the assumptions a market participant would use in pricing the financial instrument. Our valuation techniques are discussed in more detail throughout this section.

The mortgage loan portfolio consists entirely of commercial mortgage loans. The fair value of our mortgage loans is determined by modeling performed by our third-party fund manager based on the stated principal and coupon payments provided for in the loan agreements. These cash flows are then discounted using an appropriate risk-adjusted discount rate to determine the security's fair value.

Our other long-term investments consist primarily of our interests in limited liability partnerships that are recorded on the equity method of accounting. The fair value of the partnerships is obtained from the fund managers, which is based on the fair value of the underlying investments held in the partnerships. In management's opinion, these values represent a reasonable estimate of fair value. We have not adjusted the net asset value provided by the fund managers.

For cash and cash equivalents and accrued investment income, carrying value is a reasonable estimate of fair value due to the short-term nature of these financial instruments.

The Company formed a rabbi trust in 2014 to fund obligations under the United Fire & Casualty Company Supplemental Executive Retirement and Deferral Plan (the "Executive Retirement Plan"). Within the rabbi trust, corporate-owned life insurance ("COLI") policies are utilized as an investment vehicle and source of funding for the Company's Executive Retirement Plan. The COLI policies invest in mutual funds, which are priced daily by independent sources. As of June 30, 2024, the cash surrender value of the COLI policies was $12,450 which is equal to the fair value measured using Level 2 inputs, based on the underlying assets of the COLI policies, and is included in other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Our long-term debt is not carried in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at fair value. The fair value of our long-term debt is estimated using Level 2 inputs based on quoted prices for similar financial instruments. The fair value is estimated using a discounted cash flow analysis.

A summary of the carrying value and estimated fair value of our financial instruments at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 is as follows:

June 30, 2024December 31, 2023
Fair ValueCarrying ValueFair ValueCarrying Value
Assets
Investments
Fixed maturities:
Available-for-sale securities$1,796,133$1,796,133$1,686,503$1,686,502
Equity securities——55,01955,019
Mortgage loans38,73741,23842,63245,366
Other long-term investments98,40598,40599,50799,507
Short-term investments100100100100
Cash and cash equivalents153,430153,430102,046102,046
Corporate-owned life insurance12,45012,45011,91311,913
Liabilities
Long Term Debt107,959116,96538,41350,000

The following tables present the categorization for our financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The table includes financial instruments at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

June 30, 2024Fair Value Measurements
DescriptionTotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
Fixed maturities:
Bonds
U.S. Treasury$50,649$—$50,649$—
U.S. government agency88,341—88,341—
States, municipalities and political subdivisions
General obligations
Midwest38,449—38,449—
Northeast6,999—6,999—
South36,107—36,107—
West57,885—57,885—
Special revenue
Midwest63,713—63,713—
Northeast49,268—49,268—
South118,636—118,636—
West84,769—84,769—
Foreign bonds15,138—15,138—
Public utilities130,768—130,768—
Corporate bonds
Energy39,637—39,637—
Industrials53,722—53,722—
Consumer goods and services93,322—93,322—
Health care26,856—26,856—
Technology, media and telecommunications74,974—74,974—
Financial services227,572—227,572—
Mortgage-backed securities216,279—216,279—
Collateralized mortgage obligations
Government National Mortgage Association137,600—137,600—
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation65,309—65,309—
Federal National Mortgage Association41,217—41,217—
Asset-backed securities78,923—78,647276
Total Available-for-Sale Fixed Maturities$1,796,133$—$1,795,857$276
Short-Term Investments$100$100$—$—
Money Market Accounts$51,654$51,654$—$—
Corporate-Owned Life Insurance$12,450$—$12,450$—
Total Assets Measured at Fair Value$1,860,337$51,754$1,808,307$276

The fair value of financial instruments that are not carried at fair value on a recurring basis in the financial statements at June 30, 2024 are summarized below:

Description · Fair Value Total · Level 1 · Level 2 · Level 3 · Net Asset Value
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$101,776$101,776$—$—$—
Other Long Term Investments$98,405$—$1,277$—$97,128
Mortgage Loans$38,737$—$—$38,737$—
Total Financial assets not accounted for at fair value$238,918$101,776$1,277$38,737$97,128
Long Term Debt$107,959$107,959
Total Financial liabilities not accounted for at fair value$107,959$—$107,959$—$—
December 31, 2023Fair Value Measurements
DescriptionTotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
Fixed maturities:
Bonds
U.S. Treasury$50,861$—$50,861$—
U.S. government agency94,493—94,493—
States, municipalities and political subdivisions
General obligations
Midwest52,707—52,707—
Northeast11,380—11,380—
South54,207—54,207—
West77,426—77,426—
Special revenue
Midwest100,981—100,981—
Northeast52,227—52,227—
South164,266—164,266—
West101,565—101,565—
Foreign bonds19,172—19,172—
Public utilities140,467—140,467—
Corporate bonds
Energy43,473—43,473—
Industrials70,548—70,548—
Consumer goods and services95,921—95,921—
Health care33,472—33,472—
Technology, media and telecommunications81,788—81,788—
Financial services145,691—140,7994,892
Mortgage-backed securities21,483—21,483—
Collateralized mortgage obligations
Government National Mortgage Association153,206—153,206—
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation71,685—66,8624,823
Federal National Mortgage Association45,653—45,653—
Asset-backed securities3,831—2,962869
Total Available-for-Sale Fixed Maturities$1,686,503$—$1,675,919$10,584
EQUITY SECURITIES
Common stocks
Public utilities$3,993$3,993$—$—
Energy9,4779,477——
Industrials14,16414,164——
Consumer goods and services11,38511,385——
Health care2,0602,060——
Technology, media and telecommunications6,4056,405——
Financial services7,5357,535——
Total Equity Securities$55,019$55,019$—$—
Short-Term Investments$100$100$—$—
Money Market Accounts$20,333$20,333$—$—
Corporate-Owned Life Insurance$11,913$—$11,913$—
Total Assets Measured at Fair Value$1,773,868$75,452$1,687,832$10,584

The fair value of financial instruments that are not carried at fair value on a recurring basis in the financial statements at December 31, 2023 are summarized below:

DescriptionFair Value TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3Net Asset Value
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$81,713$81,713$—$—$—
Other Long Term Investments$99,507$—$1,249$—$98,258
Mortgage Loans$42,632$—$—$42,632$—
Total Financial assets not accounted for at fair value$223,852$81,713$1,249$42,632$98,258
Long Term Debt$38,413$—$38,413$—$—
Total Financial liabilities not accounted for at fair value$38,413$—$38,413$—$—

The fair value of securities that are categorized as Level 1 is based on quoted market prices that are readily and regularly available.

We use a market-based approach for valuing all of our Level 2 securities and submit them primarily to a third-party valuation service provider. Any of these securities not valued by this service provider are submitted to another third-party valuation service provider. Both service providers use a market approach to find pricing of similar financial instruments. The market inputs our service providers normally seek to value our securities include the following, listed in approximate order of priority: benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, offers, and reference data including market research publications. The method and inputs for these securities classified as Level 2 are the same regardless of industry category, credit quality, duration, geographical concentration or economic characteristics. For our mortgage-backed securities, collateralized mortgage obligations and asset-backed securities, our service providers use additional market inputs to value these securities, including the following: new issue data, periodic payment information, monthly payment information, collateral performance and real estate analysis from third parties. Our service providers prioritize inputs based on market conditions, and not all inputs listed are available for use in the valuation process for each security on any given day.

The Company receives updated prices from a third-party on a monthly basis. The third party obtains pricing information from independent pricing services and brokers and validates for reasonableness prior to use for reporting purposes on a monthly basis. At least annually, we review the methodologies and assumptions used by our third-party and verify that they are reasonable and representative of the fair value of the underlying securities held in the investment portfolio. In our opinion, the pricing obtained at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 was reasonable.

For the three- and six-month periods ended June 30, 2024, the change in our available-for-sale securities categorized as Level 1 and Level 2 is the result of investment purchases that were made using funds held in our money market accounts, disposals, funds from debt issuance proceeds, and the change in unrealized gains.

Securities categorized as Level 3 include holdings in certain private placement fixed maturity securities for which an active market does not currently exist. The fair value of our Level 3 private placement securities is determined by management relying on pricing received from our independent pricing services and brokers consistent with the process to estimate fair value for Level 2 securities. However, securities are categorized as Level 3 if these quotes cannot be corroborated by other market observable data due to the unobservable nature of the brokers' valuation processes. There is inherent uncertainty of the fair value measurement of Level 3 securities due to the use of significant unobservable inputs. A change in significant unobservable inputs may result in a significantly higher or lower fair value measurement as of the reporting date.

The following table provides quantitative information about our Level 3 securities at June 30, 2024:

Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value atValuation Technique(s)Unobservable inputsRange of weighted average significant unobservable inputs
Fixed Maturities asset-backed securities276Book ValueProbability of default0% - 100%

The following table provides a summary of the changes in fair value of our Level 3 securities for the three-month period ended June 30, 2024:

Corporate bondsAsset-backed securitiesTotal
Beginning Balance - April 1, 2024$—$276$276
Realized gains (losses)———
Net unrealized gains (losses)(1)———
Amortization———
Purchases———
Disposals———
Transfers in———
Transfers out———
Ending Balance - June 30, 2024$—$276$276

(1) Net unrealized gains (losses) are recorded as a component of comprehensive income in the line item "Change in net unrealized gain (loss) on investments."

During the three-month period ended June 30, 2024, there were zero securities transferred out of Level 3 due to the use of observable inputs in pricing the securities.

The following table provides a summary of the changes in fair value of our Level 3 securities for the six-month period ended June 30, 2024:

Corporate bondsAsset-backed securitiesTotal
Beginning Balance - January 1, 2024$4,892$5,692$10,584
Realized gains (losses)———
Net unrealized gains (losses)(1)—(593)(593)
Purchases———
Disposals———
Amortization———
Transfers in———
Transfers out(4,892)(4,823)(9,715)
Ending Balance - June 30, 2024$—$276$276

(1) Net unrealized gains (losses) are recorded as a component of comprehensive income in the line item "Change in net unrealized gain (loss) on investments."

During the six-month period ended June 30, 2024, there weretwo securities transferred out of Level 3 due to the use of observable inputs in pricing the securities.

Commercial Mortgage Loans

The following tables present the carrying value of our commercial mortgage loans and additional information at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

Commercial Mortgage Loans
June 30, 2024 · December 31, 2023
Loan-to-valueCarrying ValueCarrying Value
Less than 65%$32,718$36,762
65%-75%8,5658,659
Total amortized cost$41,283$45,421
Allowance for mortgage loan losses(45)(55)
Mortgage loans, net$41,238$45,366
Mortgage Loans by Region
June 30, 2024December 31, 2023
Carrying ValuePercent of TotalCarrying ValuePercent of Total
East North Central$3,2457.9%$3,2457.1%
Southern Atlantic17,11941.517,21737.9
East South Central7,39317.97,52616.6
New England6,58815.96,58814.5
Middle Atlantic2,1025.15,97913.2
Mountain1,9924.81,9924.4
West North Central2,8446.92,8746.3
Total mortgage loans at amortized cost$41,283100.0%$45,421100.0%
Mortgage Loans by Property Type
June 30, 2024December 31, 2023
Carrying ValuePercent of TotalCarrying ValuePercent of Total
Commercial
Multifamily$8,44820.5%$8,50718.7%
Office10,78426.110,95024.1
Industrial9,94924.19,98522.0
Retail10,00024.210,00022.0
Mixed use/Other2,1025.15,97913.2
Total mortgage loans at amortized cost$41,283100.0%$45,421100.0%
Amortized Cost Basis by Year of Origination and Credit Quality Indicator
20232022202020192018Total
Commercial mortgage loans:
Risk Rating:
1-2 internal grade$8,134$995,204$7,802$13,456$34,695
3-4 internal grade————6,5886,588
5 internal grade——————
6 internal grade——————
7 internal grade——————
Total commercial mortgage loans$8,134$99$5,204$7,802$20,044$41,283
Current-period write-offs——————
Current-period recoveries——————
Current-period net write-offs$—$—$—$—$—$—

Commercial mortgage loans carrying value excludes accrued interest of $156. As of June 30, 2024, all loan receivables were current, with no delinquencies. The commercial mortgage loans originate with an initial loan-to-value ratio that provides sufficient collateral to absorb losses should a loan be required to foreclose. Mortgage loans are evaluated on a quarterly basis for impairment on an individual basis through a monitoring process and review of key credit indicators, such as economic trends, delinquency rates, property valuations, occupancy and rental rates and loan-to-value ratios. A loan is considered impaired when the Company believes it will not collect the principal and interest set forth in the contractual terms of the loan. An internal grade is assigned to each mortgage loan, with a grade of 1 being the highest and least likely for an impairment and the lowest rating of 7 being the most likely for an impairment. An allowance for mortgage loan losses is established on each loan recognizing a loss for amounts which we believe will not be collected according to the contractual terms of the respective loan agreement. As of June 30, 2024, the Company had an allowance for mortgage loan losses of $45, summarized in the following rollforward:

Rollforward of allowance for mortgage loan losses:
As of
Beginning balance, January 1, 2024$55
Current-period provision for expected credit losses—
Write-off charged against the allowance, if any—
Recoveries of amounts previously written off, if any$(10)
Ending balance of the allowance for mortgage loan losses, June 30, 2024$45

NOTE 4. RESERVES FOR LOSSES AND LOSS SETTLEMENT EXPENSES

Property insurance indemnifies an insured with an interest in physical property for loss of, or damage to, such property or the loss of its income-producing abilities. Casualty insurance is primarily concerned with losses caused by injuries to persons and legal liability imposed on the insured for such injury or for damage to property of others. In most cases, casualty insurance also obligates the insurance company to provide a defense for the insured in litigation, arising out of events covered by the policy.

Liabilities for losses and loss settlement expenses reflect management's best estimates at a given point in time of what we expect to pay for claims that have been reported and those that have been incurred but not reported ("IBNR"), based on known facts, circumstances, and historical trends. Because property and casualty insurance reserves are estimates of the unpaid portions of incurred losses that have been reported to us, as well as losses that have been incurred but not reported, the establishment of appropriate reserves, including reserves for catastrophes, is an inherently uncertain and complex process. The ultimate cost of losses and related loss settlement expenses may vary materially from recorded amounts. We regularly update our reserve estimates as new information becomes available and as events unfold that may affect the resolution of unsettled claims. Changes in prior year reserve estimates, which may be material, are reported as a component of losses and loss settlement expenses incurred in the period such changes are determined.

The determination of reserves (particularly those relating to liability lines of insurance that have relatively longer lag in claim reporting) requires significant work to reasonably project expected future claim reporting and payment patterns. If, during the course of our regular monitoring of reserves, we determine that coverages previously written are incurring higher than expected losses, we will evaluate an appropriate response that may include, among other things, increasing the related reserves. Any adjustments we make to reserves are reflected in operating results in the year in which we make those adjustments. We engage an independent actuary, Regnier Consulting Group, Inc. ("Regnier"), to render an opinion as to the reasonableness of our statutory reserves annually. The actuarial opinion is filed in those states where we are licensed.

On a quarterly basis, our actuarial reserving department performs a detailed review of IBNR reserves. This review includes a comparison of results from the most recent analysis of reserves completed by both our internal and external actuaries. Senior management meets with our actuarial team to review, on a regular and quarterly basis, the adequacy of carried reserves based on results from this actuarial analysis. There are two fundamental types or sources of IBNR reserves. We record IBNR reserves for "normal" types of claims and also specific IBNR reserves related to unique circumstances or events. A major hurricane is an example of an event that might necessitate establishing specific IBNR reserves because an analysis of existing historical data would not provide an appropriate estimate.

Our IBNR methodologies and assumptions are reviewed periodically for reasonability.

We do not discount loss reserves based on the time value of money.

The following table provides an analysis of changes in our property and casualty losses and loss settlement expense reserves at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 (net of reinsurance amounts):

June 30, 2024December 31, 2023
Gross liability for losses and loss settlement expenses at beginning of year$1,638,755$1,497,274
Ceded losses and loss settlement expenses(191,640)(146,875)
Net liability for losses and loss settlement expenses at beginning of year$1,447,115$1,350,399
Losses and loss settlement expenses incurred for claims occurring during
Current year$378,121$701,664
Prior years2,85067,750
Total incurred$380,971$769,414
Losses and loss settlement expense payments for claims occurring during
Current year$61,548$191,899
Prior years216,453480,800
Total paid$278,001$672,699
Net liability for losses and loss settlement expenses at end of period$1,550,085$1,447,115
Ceded losses and loss settlement expenses205,654191,640
Gross liability for losses and loss settlement expenses at end of period$1,755,739$1,638,755

There are a multitude of factors that can impact loss reserve development. Those factors include, but are not limited to: historical data, the potential impact of various loss reserve development factors and trends including historical loss experience, legislative enactments, judicial decisions, legal developments in imposition of damages, experience with alternative dispute resolution, results of our medical bill review process, the potential impact of salvage and subrogation and changes and trends in general economic conditions, including the effects of inflation. All of these factors influence our estimates of required reserves and for long tail lines these factors can change over the course of the settlement of the claim. However, there is no precise method for evaluating the specific monetary impact of any individual factor on the development of reserves.

Generally, we base reserves for each claim on the estimated ultimate exposure for that claim. We believe that it is appropriate and reasonable to establish a best estimate for reserves within a range of reasonable estimates, especially when we are reserving for claims for bodily injury, disabilities and similar claims, for which settlements and verdicts can vary widely. We believe our approach produces recorded reserves that are reasonably consistent as to their relative position within a range of reasonable reserves from year-to-year. However, conditions and trends that have affected the reserve development for a given year do change.

Because of the type of property coverage we write, we have potential exposure to environmental pollution, mold and asbestos claims. Our underwriters are aware of these exposures and use riders or endorsements to limit exposure. We are not aware of any significant contingent liabilities related to environmental issues.

Reserve Development

Reserve development in the six-month period ended June 30, 2024 was adverse $2.9 million driven primarily by catastrophe loss development within the Assumed book. In addition, there was proactive strengthening in other liability lines of business due to continued uncertainty in future loss cost trends related to economic and social inflation, offset by favorable development in commercial auto, workers compensation and fire and allied lines.

During the first six months of 2023, the Company made additional refinements to its reserve review processes and analyses, including increased segmentation on unique exposures, which resulted in deeper insights and understanding of loss experience and significant movements in reserve development across a range of commercial liability lines of business. The significant driver of the reserve strengthening was an increase in long-tailed other liability reserves primarily due to increased loss cost trends related to economic and social inflation. The commercial automobile line of business also experienced reserve strengthening in reaction to continuing loss trends in post-2020 accident years. These increases were partially offset by favorable development in workers' compensation and fire and allied lines.

NOTE 5. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Net Periodic Benefit Cost

The components of the net periodic benefit cost for our pension benefit plan are as follows:

Pension Plan
Three Months Ended June 30,20242023
Net periodic benefit cost
Service cost$822$954
Interest cost2,4782,526
Expected return on plan assets(3,635)(3,756)
Amortization of prior service credit(724)(820)
Amortization of net loss—52
Net periodic benefit cost$(1,059)$(1,044)
Pension Plan
Six Months Ended June 30,20242023
Net periodic benefit cost
Service cost$1,643$1,909
Interest cost4,9575,053
Expected return on plan assets(7,271)(7,513)
Amortization of prior service credit(1,448)(1,640)
Amortization of net loss—104
Net periodic benefit cost$(2,118)$(2,087)

A portion of the service cost component of net periodic pension benefit costs is capitalized and amortized as part of deferred acquisition costs and is included in the line "Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs" in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. The portion not related to the compensation and other components of net periodic pension benefit costs is included in the line "Other underwriting expenses" in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income.

Employer Contributions

We previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 that we are not required to make a contribution to the pension plan for 2024.

NOTE 6. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

Non-Qualified Employee Stock Award Plan

At June 30, 2024, there were 938,814 authorized shares remaining available for future issuance pursuant to the United Fire Group, Inc. 2021 Stock and Incentive Plan (as amended, the "Stock Plan"). The Stock Plan is administered by the Board of Directors, which determines those employees who will receive awards, when awards will be granted, and the terms and conditions of the awards. The Board of Directors may also take any action it deems necessary and appropriate for the administration of the Stock Plan. Pursuant to the Stock Plan, the Board of Directors may, at its sole discretion, grant awards to our employees, who are in positions of substantial responsibility with UFG. The Board of Directors, in its discretion, has also delegated authority to management to grant a limited number of restricted stock units in situations where the Company is seeking to recruit or retain individuals.

Options granted pursuant to the Stock Plan are granted to buy shares of UFG's common stock at the market value of the stock on the date of grant. Options granted prior to March 2017 vest and are exercisable in installments of 20.0 percent of the number of shares covered by the option award each year from the grant date, unless the Board of Directors authorizes the acceleration of vesting. Options granted after March 2017 vest and are exercisable in installments of 33.3 percent of the number of shares covered by the option award each year from the grant date, unless the Board of Directors authorizes the acceleration of vesting. To the extent not exercised, vested option awards accumulate and are exercisable by the awardee, in whole or in part, in any subsequent year included in the option period, but not later than 10 years from the grant date. Restricted and unrestricted stock awards granted pursuant to the Stock Plan are granted at the market value of UFG's common stock on the date of the grant. Restricted stock units fully vest after three years orfive years from the date of grant, unless accelerated upon the approval of the Board of Directors, at which time UFG common stock will be issued to the awardee.

The activity in the Stock Plan is displayed in the following table:

Authorized Shares Available for Future Award GrantsSix Months Ended June 30, 2024From Inception to June 30, 2024
Beginning balance1,150,8341,900,000
Additional shares authorized—2,150,000
Number of awards granted(374,839)(4,348,696)
Number of awards forfeited or expired162,8191,237,510
Ending balance938,814938,814
Number of option awards exercised—1,537,336
Number of unrestricted stock awards granted—10,090
Number of restricted stock awards vested34,881335,317

Non-Qualified Non-Employee Director Stock Plan

The United Fire Group, Inc. Non-Employee Director Stock Plan (formerly known as the 2005 Non-Qualified Non- Employee Director Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan) (the "Director Stock Plan") authorizes the issuance of restricted stock awards and non-qualified stock options to purchase shares of UFG's common stock to non-employee directors. At June 30, 2024, the Company had 71,410 authorized shares available for future issuance pursuant to the Director Stock Plan.

The Board of Directors has the authority to determine which non-employee directors receive awards, when restricted stock, restricted stock units and options shall be granted, the option price, the option expiration date, the date of grant, the vesting schedule of options or whether the options shall be immediately vested, the terms and conditions of options, restricted stock and restricted stock units (other than those terms and conditions set forth in the plan) and the number of shares of common stock to be issued pursuant to an option, restricted stock or restricted stock unit agreements (subject to limits set forth in the Director Stock Plan). The Board of Directors may also take any action it deems necessary and appropriate for the administration of the Director Stock Plan.

The activity in the Director Stock Plan is displayed in the following table:

Authorized Shares Available for Future Award GrantsSix Months Ended June 30, 2024From Inception to June 30, 2024
Beginning balance103,600300,000
Additional authorization—150,000
Number of awards granted(32,190)(418,808)
Number of awards forfeited or expired—40,218
Ending balance71,41071,410
Number of option awards exercised—152,336
Number of restricted stock awards vested31,380169,336

Stock-Based Compensation Expense

For the three-month periods ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, we recognized stock-based compensation expense of $1,555 and $1,100, respectively.

As of June 30, 2024, we had $11,158 in stock-based compensation expense that has yet to be recognized through our results of operations. We expect this compensation to be recognized over the remainder of 2024 and subsequent years according to the table below, except with respect to awards that are accelerated by the Board of Directors, in which case we will recognize any remaining compensation expense in the period in which the awards are accelerated.

2024$3,155
20254,707
20262,746
2027550
2028—
Total$11,158

NOTE 7. EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted earnings per share gives effect to all dilutive common shares outstanding during the reporting period. The dilutive shares we consider in our diluted earnings per share calculation relate to our outstanding stock options, restricted stock awards and restricted stock unit awards.

We determine the dilutive effect of our outstanding stock options using the "treasury stock" method. Under this method, we assume the exercise of all of the outstanding stock options whose exercise price is less than the weighted-average market value of our common stock during the reporting period. This method also assumes that the proceeds from the hypothetical stock option exercises are used to repurchase shares of our common stock at the weighted-average market value of the stock during the reporting period. The net of the assumed stock options exercised and assumed common shares repurchased represents the number of dilutive common shares, which we add to the denominator of the earnings per share calculation.

The components of basic and diluted earnings per share were as follows for the three- and six-month periods ended June 30, 2024 and 2023:

Three Months Ended June 30,
(In Thousands, Except Share Data)20242023
BasicDilutedBasicDiluted
Net income (loss)$(2,735)$(2,735)$(56,382)$(56,382)
Weighted-average common shares outstanding25,314,45625,314,45625,249,07325,249,073
Add dilutive effect of restricted stock unit awards————
Add dilutive effect of stock options————
Weighted-average common shares outstanding25,314,45625,314,45625,249,07325,249,073
Earnings (loss) per common share$(0.11)$(0.11)$(2.23)$(2.23)
Awards excluded from diluted earnings per share calculation(1)—662,378—826,259

(1)Outstanding awards that are not "in-the-money" are excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation because the effect of including them would inherently have been anti-dilutive.

Six Months Ended June 30,
(In Thousands, Except Share Data)20242023
BasicDilutedBasicDiluted
Net income (loss)$10,767$10,767$(55,688)$(55,688)
Weighted-average common shares outstanding25,294,69825,294,69825,234,83425,234,834
Add dilutive effect of restricted stock unit awards—599,982——
Add dilutive effect of stock options—801——
Weighted-average common shares outstanding25,294,69825,895,48125,234,83425,234,834
Earnings (loss) per common share$0.43$0.42$(2.21)$(2.21)
Awards excluded from diluted earnings per share calculation(1)—662,378—822,692

(1)Outstanding awards that are not "in-the-money" are excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation because the effect of including them would inherently have been anti-dilutive.

NOTE 8. DEBT

Long Term Debt

December 2020 Private Placement

The Company executed a private placement debt transaction on December 15, 2020, by and between United Fire & Casualty Company ("UF&C"), and Federated Mutual Insurance Company, a mutual insurance company domiciled in Minnesota ("Federated Mutual"), and Federated Life Insurance Company, an insurance company domiciled in Minnesota ("Federated Life" and, together with Federated Mutual, the "Note Purchasers").

UF&C sold an aggregate principal amount of $50,000 of notes due in 2040 to the Note Purchasers. One note with a principal amount of $35,000 was issued to Federated Mutual and one note with a principal amount of $15,000 was issued to Federated Life subject to the terms of their respective notes.

Interest payments under the long-term debt will be paid quarterly on March 15, June 15, September 15 and December 15 of each year (each such date, an "Interest Payment Date"). The interest rate will equal the rate that corresponds to the A.M. Best Co. (or its successor's) financial strength rating for members of the United Fire & Casualty Pooled Group as of the applicable Interest Payment Date, as set forth in the table below. For the six-month period ended June 30, 2024, interest expense totaled $1,719. Payment of interest is subject to approval by the Iowa Insurance Division.

A.M. Best Co. Financial Strength RatingApplicable Interest Rate
A+5.875%
A6.375%
A-6.875%
B++ (or lower)7.375%

May 2024 Private Placement

On May 31, 2024, the Company completed the private placement of $70,000 aggregate principal of senior unsecured notes due May 31, 2039 (the "Notes"), to certain qualified institutional buyers pursuant to a Master Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 31, 2024, by and among the Company, Ares Management, LLC ("Ares") as the lead investor (including several affiliate investors of Ares), American Republic Insurance Company and Illinois Casualty Company. The Notes were issued in a single series, with a maturity date of May 31, 2039, and bearing interest at an annual rate of 9%. Costs incurred in the issuance of debt of $3,050 are capitalized and amortized over the life of the non-cancellable period of the debt. The capitalization of such debt issuance costs are included as an offset to the "Long Term Debt" in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and the related amortization is included in "Interest expense" in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. The interest on the Notes will be payable quarterly in arrears beginning on August 31, 2024. For the six-month period ended June 30, 2024, interest expense totaled $540.

Credit Facilities

In December 2023, UF&C became a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines ("FHLB Des Moines"). As part of the FHLB Des Moines application process and in connection with its membership in FHLB Des Moines, UF&C entered into FHLB Des Moines' standard Advances, Pledge and Security Agreement (the "Advances Agreement"). The Advances Agreement governs the terms and conditions under which UF&C may borrow and FHLB Des Moines may make loans or advances from time to time. The Advances Agreement requires UF&C to pledge certain collateral, including the capital stock in FHLB Des Moines owned by UF&C and such other assets (including mortgage-related securities, loans, and stock in the Company) as agreed by UF&C and FHLB Des Moines in connection with any such loans or advances.

Membership in FHLB Des Moines provides the Company with access to FHLB Des Moines' product line of financial services, including funding agreements, general asset/liability management, and collateralized advances that can be used for liquidity management. As a member, the Company has an aggregate borrowing capacity of up to 20.0 percent of total assets of UF&C. As of June 30, 2024, the Company has FHLB Des Moines borrowing capacity up to $452.7 million if an immediate liquidity need would arise. The Company hadno outstanding balance as of June 30, 2024 and 2023 related to these lines of credit.

NOTE 9. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

The following table shows the changes in the components of our accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, for the three-month period ended June 30, 2024:

Liability for · Foreign
Net unrealized · underfunded · currency
gain (loss) · employee · translation
on investmentsbenefit costs(1)adjustmentTotal
Balance as of March 31, 2024(73,707)15,438$(23)$(58,292)
Change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications(5,257)(572)35(5,794)
Reclassification adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)970——970
Balance as of June 30, 2024$(77,994)$14,866$12$(63,116)

(1) The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make various estimates and assumptions that affect the reporting of net periodic benefit cost, plan assets and plan obligations for each plan at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. One significant estimate relates to the calculation of the benefit obligation for each plan. We annually establish the discount rate, which is an estimate of the interest rate at which these benefits could be effectively settled, that is used to determine the present value of the respective plan's benefit obligations as of December 31.

The following table shows the changes in the components of our accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, for the six-month period ended June 30, 2024:

Liability for · Foreign
Net unrealized · underfunded · currency
gain (loss) · employee · translation
on investmentsbenefit costs(1)adjustmentTotal
Balance as of January 1, 2024(66,967)16,010—$(50,957)
Change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications(14,023)(1,144)12(15,155)
Reclassification adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)2,996——2,996
Balance as of June 30, 2024$(77,994)$14,866$12$(63,116)

(1) The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make various estimates and assumptions that affect the reporting of net periodic benefit cost, plan assets and plan obligations for each plan at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. One significant estimate relates to the calculation of the benefit obligation for each plan. We annually establish the discount rate, which is an estimate of the interest rate at which these benefits could be effectively settled, that is used to determine the present value of the respective plan's benefit obligations as of December 31.

Income tax effects are released from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for unrealized gains or losses when the gains or losses are realized.

NOTE 10. LEASES

The Company has operating leases consisting of office space, vehicle leases, computer equipment, and office equipment. Lease terms and options vary in the Company's operating leases dependent upon the underlying leased asset. We exclude options to extend or terminate a lease from our recognition as part of our right-of-use assets and lease liabilities until those options are known and/or executed, as we typically do not exercise options to purchase the underlying leased asset. As of June 30, 2024, we have leases with remaining terms ofone year toseven years, some of which may include no options for renewal and others with options to extend the lease terms fromsix months tofive years.

The Company hassix lease agreements under which the Company serves as the lessor. The properties are used for office space and parking. The terms of the leases vary depending on the property and range fromtwo years tonine years, which may include options for renewal or to extend lease terms. The Company has elected to categorize these leases into four categories based on length of lease terms and applies an incremental borrowing rate.

The components of our operating leases were as follows for the three- and six-month periods ended June 30, 2024 and 2023:

Three Months Ended June 30,Six Months Ended June 30,
2024202320242023
Components of lease expense:
Operating lease expense$2,354$2,210$4,754$4,397
Less lessor income145133291266
Less sublease income133126266160
Net lease expense2,0761,9514,1973,971
Cash flows information related to leases:
Operating cash outflow from operating leases2,0801,9914,1844,043

There have been no allowances for credit losses recorded or write-offs against our receivables related to our lessor agreements because, due to the nature of the operating leases and history of collectability, there is no expectation of credit quality concerns.

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