BROWN & BROWN INC

Previous wording

We are a diversified insurance agency, wholesale brokerage, insurance programs and services organization headquartered in Daytona Beach, Florida. As an insurance intermediary, our principal sources of revenue are commissions paid by insurance companies and, to a lesser extent, fees paid directly by customers. Commission revenues generally represent a percentage of the premium paid by an insured and are affected by fluctuations in both premium rate levels charged by insurance companies and the insureds’ underlying “insurable exposure units,” which are units that insurance companies use to measure or express insurance exposed to risk (such as property values, sales or payroll levels) to determine what premium to charge the insured. Insurance companies establish these premium rates based upon many factors, including loss experience, risk profile and reinsurance rates paid by such insurance companies, none of which we control. We also participate in capitalized captive insurance facilities (the "Captives") for the purpose of having additional capacity to place coverage, drive additional revenues and to participate in underwriting results. The Captives focus on property insurance for earthquake and wind exposed properties underwritten by certain of our MGUs and limit the Company's exposure to claims expenses through reinsurance or by only participating in certain tranches of the underwriting.

Current wording

We are a diversified insurance agency, wholesale brokerage, insurance programs and services headquartered in Daytona Beach, Florida. As an insurance intermediary, our principal sources of revenue are commissions paid by insurance companies and, to a lesser extent, fees paid directly by customers. Commission revenues generally represent a percentage of the premium paid by an insured and are affected by fluctuations in both premium rate levels charged by insurance companies and the insureds’ underlying “insurable exposure units,” which are units that insurance companies use to measure or express insurance exposed to risk (such as property values, sales or payroll levels) to determine what premium to charge the insured. Insurance companies establish these premium rates based upon many factors, including loss experience, risk profile and reinsurance rates paid by such insurance companies, none of which we control. We also participate in capitalized captive insurance facilities (the "Captives") for the purpose of having additional capacity to place coverage, drive additional revenues and to participate in underwriting results. The Captives focus on property insurance for earthquake and wind exposed properties underwritten by certain of our MGUs and limit the Company's exposure to claims expenses through reinsurance or by only participating in certain tranches of the underwriting.

Previous wording

We have increased revenues every year from 1993 to 2023, with the exception of 2009, when our revenues declined 1.0%. Our revenues grew from $95.6 million in 1993 to $4.3 billion in 2023, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 13.5%. In the same 30-year period, we increased net income from $8.1 million to $870.5 million in 2023, a 16.9% compound annual growth rate.

Current wording

We have increased revenues every year from 1993 to 2024, with the exception of 2009, when our revenues declined 1.0%. Our revenues grew from $95.6 million in 1993 to $4.8 billion in 2024, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 13.5%. In the same 31-year period, we increased net income from $8.1 million to $1.0 billion in 2024, a 16.8% compound annual growth rate.

Previous wording

The volume of business from new and existing customers, fluctuations in insurable exposure units, changes in premium rate levels, changes in general economic and competitive conditions, a reduction of purchased limits or the occurrence of catastrophic weather events all affect our revenues. For example, higher levels of inflation, an increase the value of insurable exposure units, or a general decline in economic activity, could increase or decrease the value of insurable exposure units. Conversely, increasing costs of litigation settlements and awards could cause some customers to seek higher levels of insurance coverage. Historically, we have grown our revenues as a result of our focus on net new business and acquisitions. We foster a strong, decentralized sales and service culture, which enables responsiveness to changing business conditions and drives accountability for results.

Current wording

The volume of business from new and existing customers, fluctuations in insurable exposure units, changes in premium rate levels, changes in general economic and competitive conditions, a reduction of purchased limits or the occurrence of catastrophic weather events all affect our revenues. For example, higher levels of inflation, an increase the value of insurable exposure units, or a general decline in economic activity, could increase or decrease the value of insurable exposure units. Conversely, increasing costs of litigation settlements and awards could cause some customers to seek higher levels of insurance coverage. Historically, we have grown our revenues as a result of our focus on new business, customer retention and acquisitions. We foster a strong, decentralized sales and service culture, which enables responsiveness to changing business conditions and drives accountability for results.

Previous wording

The term “core commissions and fees” excludes profit-sharing contingent commissions, and therefore represents the revenues earned directly from specific insurance policies sold, and specific fee-based services rendered. The net change in core commissions and fees reflects the aggregate changes attributable to: (i) net new and lost accounts; (ii) net changes in our customers’ exposure units, deductibles or insured limits; (iii) net changes in insurance premium rates or the commission rate paid to us by our carrier partners; (iv) the net change in fees paid to us by our customers; and (v) any businesses acquired or disposed of.

Current wording

The term “core commissions and fees” excludes profit-sharing contingent commissions, and therefore, it represents the revenues earned directly from specific insurance policies sold, and specific fee-based services rendered. The net change in core commissions and fees reflects the aggregate changes attributable to: (i) net new and lost accounts; (ii) net changes in our customers’ exposure units, deductibles or insured limits; (iii) net changes in insurance premium rates or the commission rate paid to us by our carrier partners; (iv) the net change in fees paid to us by our customers; and (v) any businesses acquired or disposed of.

Previous wording

We also earn profit-sharing contingent commissions, which are commissions based primarily on underwriting results, but in select situations may reflect additional considerations for volume, growth and/or retention. These commissions, which are included in our commissions and fees in the Consolidated Statements of Income, are estimated and accrued throughout the year based on actual premiums written and knowledge, to the extent it is available, of losses incurred. Payments are primarily received in the first and second quarters of each subsequent year, based upon the aforementioned considerations for the prior year(s), but may differ from the amount estimated and accrued due to the lack of complete loss information until paid. Over the last three years, profit-sharing contingent commissions have averaged approximately 3.3% of commissions and fees revenue.

Current wording

We also earn profit-sharing contingent commissions, which are commissions based primarily on underwriting results, but in select situations may reflect additional considerations for volume, growth and/or retention. These commissions, which are included in our commissions and fees in the Consolidated Statements of Income, are estimated and accrued throughout the year based on actual premiums written and knowledge, to the extent it is available, of losses incurred. Payments are primarily received in the first and second quarters of each subsequent year, based upon the aforementioned considerations for the prior year(s), but may differ from the amount estimated and accrued due to the lack of complete visibility regarding loss information until they are received. Over the last three years, profit-sharing contingent commissions have averaged approximately 3.6% of commissions and fees revenue.

Previous wording

Fee revenues primarily relate to services other than securing coverage for our customers, and for fees negotiated in lieu of commissions. Fee revenues are generated by: (i) our Services segment, which is primarily a fee-based business that provides insurance-related services, including third-party claims administration and comprehensive medical utilization management services in both the workers’ compensation and all-lines liability arenas, as well as Medicare Set-aside services, Social Security disability and Medicare benefits advocacy services, and claims adjusting services; (ii) our National Programs and Wholesale Brokerage segments, which earn fees primarily for the issuance of insurance policies on behalf of insurance companies; and (iii) our Retail segment in our large-account customer base, where we primarily earn fees for securing insurance for our customers, and in our automobile dealer services (“F&I”) businesses where we earn fees for assisting our customers with creating and selling warranty and service risk management programs. Fee revenues as a percentage of our total commissions and fees, represented 23.9% in 2023 and 25.8% in 2022.

Current wording

Fee revenues primarily relate to services other than securing coverage for our customers, and for fees negotiated in lieu of commissions. Fee revenues are generated by: (i) our Programs and Wholesale Brokerage segments, which earn fees primarily for the issuance of insurance policies on behalf of insurance carriers and (ii) our Retail segment in our large-account customer base, where we primarily earn fees for securing insurance for our customers, in our F&I businesses where we earn fees for assisting our customers with creating and selling warranty and service risk management programs and fees for Medicare Set-aside services, Social Security disability services and Medicare benefits advocacy services. Fee revenues as a percentage of our total commissions and fees, represented 21.1% in 2024 and 23.9% in 2023.

Previous wording

For the year ended December 31, 2023, our commissions and fees growth rate was 17.9% and our consolidated Organic Revenue growth rate was 10.2%.

Current wording

For the year ended December 31, 2024, our commissions and fees growth rate was 12.1% and our consolidated Organic Revenue growth rate was 10.4%.

Previous wording

Historically, investment income has consisted primarily of interest earnings on operating cash and where permitted, on premiums and advance premiums collected and held in a fiduciary capacity before being remitted to insurance companies. Our policy as it relates to the Company’s capital is to invest available funds in high-quality, short-term money-market funds and fixed income investment securities. Investment income also includes gains and losses realized from the sale of investments. Other income primarily reflects other miscellaneous revenues.

Current wording

Historically, investment income has consisted primarily of interest earnings on operating cash and where permitted, on premiums collected and held in a fiduciary capacity before being remitted to insurance companies. Our policy as it relates to the Company’s capital is to invest available funds in high-quality, short-term money-market funds and fixed income investment securities. Investment income also includes gains and losses realized from the sale of investments. Other income primarily reflects other miscellaneous revenues.

Previous wording

Income before income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased by $270.0 million, or 30.8% over 2022, driven by net new business, growth from existing customers, acquisitions we completed in the last 12 months and an increase in the (gain)/loss on disposal primarily associated with the divestiture of certain businesses within the Services segment during the fourth quarter of 2023, which were partially offset by incremental operating costs, increased amortization expense as a result of acquisitions, along with higher interest expense associated with an increase in the reference rate associated with the portion of our debt that carries a floating rate, and an increase in the change in estimated acquisition earn-out payables.

Current wording

Income before income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2024, increased by $157 million, or 13.7% over 2023, driven by Organic Revenue growth, increased profit-sharing contingent commissions, leveraging our expense base, net new business, increased investment income, acquisitions completed in the past twelve months and the change in estimated acquisition earn-out payables. This was partially offset by a decrease in the gain on disposal primarily associated with the divestiture of certain businesses within the former Services segment during the fourth quarter of 2023.

Previous wording

In the discussion and analysis of our results of operations, in addition to reporting financial results in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), we provide references to the following non-GAAP financial measures as defined in Regulation G of the SEC rules: Total Revenues - Adjusted, Organic Revenue, EBITDAC, EBITDAC Margin, EBITDAC - Adjusted and EBITDAC Margin - Adjusted. We present these measures because we believe such information is of interest to the investment community and because we believe it provides additional meaningful methods to evaluate the Company’s operating performance from period to period on a basis that may not be otherwise apparent on a GAAP basis due to the impact of certain items that have a high degree of variability, that we believe are not indicative of ongoing performance and that are not easily comparable from period to period. This non-GAAP financial information should be considered in addition to, not in lieu of, the Company’s consolidated income statements and balance sheets as of the relevant date. Consistent with Regulation G, a description of such information is provided below and tabular reconciliations of this supplemental non-GAAP financial information to our most comparable GAAP information are contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K under “Results of Operations - Segment Information.

Current wording

In the discussion and analysis of our results of operations, in addition to reporting financial results in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), we provide references to the following non-GAAP financial measures as defined in Regulation G of the SEC rules: Organic Revenue, EBITDAC, EBITDAC Margin, EBITDAC - Adjusted and EBITDAC Margin - Adjusted. We present these measures because we believe such information is of interest to the investment community. We believe they provide additional meaningful methods to evaluate the Company’s operating performance from period to period. These measures of operating performance may not be otherwise apparent on a GAAP basis due to the impact of certain items that have a high degree of variability, that we believe are not indicative of ongoing performance and that are not easily comparable from period to period. This non-GAAP financial information should be considered in addition to, not in lieu of, the Company’s consolidated income statements and balance sheets as of the relevant date. Consistent with Regulation G, a description of such information is provided below and tabular reconciliations of this supplemental non-GAAP financial information to our most comparable GAAP information are contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K under “Results of Operations - Segment Information.”

Previous wording

We view Organic Revenue and Organic Revenue growth as important indicators when assessing and evaluating our performance on a consolidated basis and for each of our four segments, because they allow us to determine a comparable, but non-GAAP, measurement of revenue growth that is associated with the revenue sources that were a part of our business in both the current and prior year and that are expected to continue in the future. We also view Total Revenues - Adjusted, EBITDAC, EBITDAC - Adjusted, EBITDAC Margin and EBITDAC Margin - Adjusted as important indicators when assessing and evaluating our performance, as they present more comparable measurements of our operating margins in a meaningful and consistent manner. As disclosed in our most recent proxy statement, we use Organic Revenue growth, and EBITDAC Margin - Adjusted as key performance metrics for our short-term and long-term incentive compensation plans for executive officers and other key employees.

Current wording

We view Organic Revenue and Organic Revenue growth as important indicators when assessing and evaluating our performance on a consolidated basis and for each of our three segments, because they allow us to determine a comparable, but non-GAAP, measurement of revenue growth that is associated with the revenue sources that were a part of our business in both the current and prior year, and that are expected to continue in the future. We also view EBITDAC, EBITDAC - Adjusted, EBITDAC Margin and EBITDAC Margin - Adjusted as important indicators when assessing and evaluating our performance, as they present more comparable measurements of our operating margins in a meaningful and consistent manner. As disclosed in our most recent proxy statement, we use Organic Revenue growth, and EBITDAC Margin - Adjusted as key performance metrics for our short-term and long-term incentive compensation plans for executive officers and other key employees.

Previous wording

Organic Revenue is our core commissions and fees less: (i) the core commissions and fees earned for the first 12 months by newly acquired operations; (ii) divested business (core commissions and fees generated from offices, books of business or niches sold or terminated during the comparable period); and (iii) Foreign Currency Translation (as defined below). The term “core commissions and fees” excludes profit-sharing contingent commissions and therefore represents the revenues earned directly from specific insurance policies sold and specific fee-based services rendered. Organic Revenue can be expressed as a dollar amount or a percentage rate when describing Organic Revenue growth.

Current wording

Organic Revenue is our core commissions and fees less: (i) the core commissions and fees earned for the first twelve months by newly acquired operations; (ii) divested business (core commissions and fees generated from offices, books of business or niches sold or terminated during the comparable period) and (iii) Foreign Currency Translation (as defined below). The term “core commissions and fees” excludes profit-sharing contingent commissions and therefore represents the revenues earned directly from specific insurance policies sold and specific fee-based services rendered. Organic Revenue can be expressed as a dollar amount or a percentage rate when describing Organic Revenue growth.

Previous wording

EBITDAC - Adjusted is defined as EBITDAC, excluding (i) (gain)/loss on disposal, (ii) Acquisition/Integration Costs (as defined below), (iii) for 2023, the 1Q23 Nonrecurring Cost (as defined below) and (iv) Foreign Currency Translation (as defined below).

Current wording

EBITDAC - Adjusted is defined as EBITDAC, excluding (i) (gain)/loss on disposal, (ii) for 2022 and 2023, Acquisition/Integration Costs (as defined below) and (iii) for 2023, the 1Q23 Nonrecurring Cost (as defined below).

Previous wording

EBITDAC Margin - Adjusted is defined as EBITDAC - Adjusted divided by Total Revenues - Adjusted.

Current wording

EBITDAC Margin - Adjusted is defined as EBITDAC - Adjusted divided by total revenues.

Previous wording

“Acquisition/Integration Costs” means the acquisition and integration costs (e.g., costs associated with regulatory filings, legal/accounting services, due diligence and the costs of integrating our information technology systems) arising out of our acquisitions of GRP (Jersey) Holdco Limited and its business ("GRP"), Orchid Underwriters Agency and CrossCover Insurance Services ("Orchid"), and BdB Limited companies ("BdB"), which are not considered to be normal, recurring or part of the ongoing operations.

Current wording

“Acquisition/Integration Costs” means the acquisition and integration costs (e.g., costs associated with regulatory filings, legal/accounting services, due diligence and the costs of integrating our information technology systems) arising out of our acquisitions of GRP (Jersey) Holdco Limited and its business, Orchid Underwriters Agency and CrossCover Insurance Services, and BdB Limited companies, which are not considered to be normal, recurring or part of the ongoing operations.

Previous wording

Part of our business strategy is to attract high-quality insurance intermediaries and service organizations to join our operations. From 1993 through the fourth quarter of 2023, we acquired 644 insurance intermediary operations.

Current wording

Part of our business strategy is to attract high-quality insurance intermediaries and service organizations to join our operations. From 1993 through the fourth quarter of 2024, we acquired 676 insurance intermediary operations.

Previous wording

To a much lesser extent, the Company earns revenues in the form of net retained earned premiums in connection with the Captives. These premiums are reported net of the ceded premiums for reinsurance and recognized evenly over the associated policy periods.

Current wording

To a much lesser extent, the Company earns revenues in the form of net retained earned premiums in connection with the Captives. These premiums are reported net of the ceded premiums for reinsurance and recognized ratably over the associated policy periods.

Previous wording

Management determines a policy cancellation reserve based upon historical cancellation experience adjusted in accordance with known circumstances.

Current wording

Management determines a cancellation reserve based upon historical cancellation experience adjusted in accordance with known circumstances.

Previous wording

We have acquired significant intangible assets through acquisitions of businesses. These assets generally consist of purchased customer accounts, non-compete agreements, and the excess of purchase prices over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired (goodwill). The determination of estimated useful lives and the allocation of purchase price to intangible assets requires significant judgment and affects the amount of future amortization and possible impairment charges.

Current wording

We have acquired significant intangible assets through acquisitions of businesses. These assets primarily consist of purchased customer accounts and the excess of purchase prices over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired (goodwill). The determination of estimated useful lives and the allocation of purchase price to intangible assets requires significant judgment and affects the amount of future amortization and possible impairment charges.

Previous wording

In connection with acquisitions, we record the estimated value of the net tangible assets purchased and the value of the identifiable intangible assets purchased, which typically consist of purchased customer accounts and non-compete agreements. Purchased customer accounts include the right to represent insureds or claimants supported by the physical records and files obtained from acquired businesses that contain information about insurance policies, customers and other matters essential to policy renewals of delivery of services. Their value primarily represents the present value of the underlying net cash flows expected to be received over the estimated future duration of the acquired customer relationships. The valuation of purchased customer accounts involves significant estimates and assumptions concerning matters such as cancellation frequency, expenses and discount rates. Any change in these assumptions could affect the carrying value of purchased customer accounts. Non-compete agreements are valued based upon their duration and any unique features of the particular agreements. Purchased customer accounts and non-compete agreements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the related estimated lives and contract periods, which typically range from 3 to 15 years. The excess of the purchase price of an acquisition over the fair value of the identifiable tangible and intangible assets is assigned to goodwill and is not amortized.

Current wording

In connection with acquisitions, we record the estimated value of the net tangible assets purchased and the value of the identifiable intangible assets purchased, which primarily consist of purchased customer accounts. Purchased customer accounts include the right to represent insureds or claimants supported by the physical records and files obtained from acquired businesses that contain information about insurance policies, customers and other matters essential to policy renewals of delivery of services. Their value primarily represents the present value of the underlying net cash flows expected to be received over the estimated future duration of the acquired customer relationships. The valuation of purchased customer accounts involves significant estimates and assumptions concerning matters such as cancellation frequency, expenses and discount rates. Any change in these assumptions could affect the carrying value of purchased customer accounts. Purchased customer accounts are amortized on a straight-line basis over the related estimated lives, generally 15 years. The excess of the purchase price of an acquisition over the fair value of the identifiable tangible and intangible assets is assigned to goodwill and is not amortized.

Previous wording

We grant non-vested stock awards to our employees, with the related compensation expense recognized in the financial statements over the associated service period based upon the grant-date fair value of those awards, subject to any performance modification. During the performance measurement period, we review the probable outcome of the performance conditions associated with our performance awards quarterly and adjust the expense recognition accruals with the expected performance outcome.

Current wording

We grant non-vested stock awards to our employees, with the related compensation expense recognized in the financial statements over the associated service period based upon the grant-date fair value of those awards, subject to any performance modification. During the performance measurement period, we review the probable outcome of the performance conditions associated with our performance awards and adjust the expense recognition accruals with the expected performance outcome.

Previous wording

During the first quarter of 2023, the performance conditions for approximately 970,000 shares of the Company’s common stock granted under the under the Company’s 2019 SIP were determined by the Compensation Committee to have been satisfied relative to the performance-based grants issued in 2020 and 2022. These grants had a performance measurement period that concluded on December 31, 2022. The vesting condition for these grants requires continuous employment for a period of up to five years from the 2020 grant date and four years from the 2022 grant date in order for the awarded shares to become fully vested and nonforfeitable. As a result of the awarding of these shares, the grantees will be eligible to receive payments of dividends and exercise voting privileges. The awarded shares will be included as issued and outstanding common stock shares and included in the calculation of basic and diluted net income per share.

Current wording

During the first quarter of 2023, the performance conditions for approximately 970,000 shares of the Company’s common stock granted under the Company’s 2019 SIP were determined by the Compensation Committee to have been satisfied relative to the performance-based grants issued in 2020 and 2022. These grants had a performance measurement period that concluded on December 31, 2022. The vesting condition for these grants requires continuous employment for a period of up to five years from the 2020 grant date and four years from the 2022 grant date in order for the awarded shares to become fully vested and nonforfeitable. As a result of the awarding of these shares, the grantees will be eligible to receive payments of dividends and exercise voting privileges. The awarded shares will be included as issued and outstanding common stock shares and included in the calculation of basic and diluted net income per share.

Previous wording

We are subject to numerous litigation claims that arise in the ordinary course of business. If it is probable that a liability has been incurred at the date of the financial statements and the amount of the loss is estimable, an accrual for the costs to resolve these claims is recorded in accrued expenses in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements. Professional fees related to these claims are included in other operating expenses in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Income as incurred. Management, with the assistance of in-house and outside counsel, determines whether it is probable that a liability has been incurred and estimates the amount of loss based upon analysis of individual issues. New developments or changes in settlement strategy in dealing with these matters may significantly affect the required reserves and affect our net income.

Current wording

We are subject to numerous litigation and claims that arise in the ordinary course of business. If it is probable that a liability has been incurred at the date of the financial statements and the amount of the loss is estimable, an accrual for the costs to resolve these claims is recorded in accrued expenses in the accompanying financial statements. Professional fees related to these claims are included in other operating expenses in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Income as incurred. Management, with the assistance of in-house and outside counsel, determines whether it is probable that a liability has been incurred and estimates the amount of loss based upon analysis of individual issues. New developments or changes in settlement strategy in dealing with these matters may significantly affect the required reserves and affect our net income.

Previous wording

Commissions and fees, including profit-sharing contingent commissions and earned premiums for 2023, increased $636.2 million to $4,199.4 million, or 17.9% over 2022. Core commissions and fees in 2023 increased $595.0 million, composed of (i) $351.1 million of net new and renewal business, which reflects an Organic Revenue growth rate of 10.2%; (ii) $285.0 million from acquisitions that had no comparable revenues in the same period of 2022; (iii) an increase from the impact from Foreign Currency Translation of $9.9 million; and (iv) an offsetting decrease of $51.0 million related to commissions and fees revenue from business divested in the preceding 12 months. Profit-sharing contingent commissions for 2023 increased by $41.2 million, or 46.4%, compared to the same period in 2022. This increase was the result of recent acquisitions and qualifying for certain profit-sharing contingent commissions in 2023 that we did not qualify for in the prior year, partially due to a quieter hurricane season in 2023 as compared to 2022.

Current wording

Commissions and fees, including profit-sharing contingent commissions and earned premiums for 2024, increased $506.0 million to $4,705 million, or 12.1% over 2023. Core commissions and fees in 2024 increased $470 million, composed of (i) approximately $415 million of net new and renewal business, which reflects an Organic Revenue growth rate of 10.4%; (ii) $146 million from acquisitions that had no comparable revenues in the same period of 2023; (iii) an increase from the impact of Foreign Currency Translation of $10 million and (iv) an offsetting decrease of $101 million related to commissions and fees revenue from businesses or books of business divested in the preceding twelve months. Profit-sharing contingent commissions for 2024 increased by $36 million, or 27.7%, compared to the same period in 2023. This increase was driven primarily by (i) improved underwriting results, overall growth of the business, as well as qualifying for certain profit-sharing contingent commissions that we did not qualify for in the prior year and (ii) recent acquisitions.

Previous wording

Investment income for 2023 was $52.4 million, compared with $6.5 million in 2022. The increase was primarily driven by higher average interest rates compared to 2022.

Current wording

Investment income for 2024 was $93 million, compared with $52 million in 2023. The increase was primarily driven by higher average interest rates and cash balances compared to 2023.

Previous wording

Other income for 2023 was $5.3 million, compared with $3.7 million in 2022. Other income consists primarily of miscellaneous income and therefore can fluctuate between comparable periods.

Current wording

Other income for 2024 was $7 million, compared with $6 million in 2023. Other income consists of miscellaneous income and therefore, it can fluctuate between comparable periods.

Previous wording

Employee compensation and benefits expense as a percentage of total revenues was 51.4% for the year ended December 31, 2023 as compared to 50.8% for the year ended December 31, 2022, and increased 20.3%, or $369.7 million. This increase included $158.8 million of compensation costs related to stand-alone acquisitions that had no comparable costs in the same period of 2022. Therefore, employee compensation and benefits expense attributable to those offices that existed in the same time periods of 2023 and 2022 increased by $210.9 million or 12.3%. This underlying employee compensation and benefits expense increase was primarily related to: (i) an increase in staff salaries and bonuses attributable to new hires; (ii) an increase in producer compensation associated with revenue growth; (iii) an increase in non-cash stock-based compensation driven by the strong financial performance of the Company and (iv) the year-over-year increase of approximately $46.5 million in the value of deferred compensation liabilities driven by changes in the market prices of our employees' investment elections associated with our deferred compensation plan, with such amount substantially offset within other operating expenses as we hold assets to fund these liabilities that closely match the investment elections of our employees.

Current wording

Employee compensation and benefits expense as a percentage of total revenues was 50.1% for the year ended December 31, 2024 as compared to 51.4% for the year ended December 31, 2023, and increased 10.0%, or $219 million. This increase included $69 million of compensation costs related to stand-alone acquisitions that had no comparable costs in the same period of 2023. Therefore, employee compensation and benefits expense attributable to those offices that existed in the same time periods of 2024 and 2023 increased by $150 million, or 6.9%. This underlying employee compensation and benefits expense increase was primarily related to: (i) an increase in staff costs attributable to new hires; (ii) an increase in producer compensation associated with revenue growth; (iii) an increase in non-cash stock-based compensation driven by the strong financial performance of the Company and (iv) the year-over-year increase of approximately $21 million in the value of deferred compensation liabilities driven by changes in the market prices of our deferred compensation plan, with such amount substantially offset within other operating expenses as we hold assets to fund these liabilities, partially offset by (v) employee compensation and benefits associated with certain third-party claims administration and adjusting services businesses divested in the fourth quarter of 2023.

Previous wording

Other operating expenses represented 15.3% of total revenues for 2023 as compared to 16.7% for the year ended December 31, 2022. Other operating expenses for 2023 increased $53.1 million, or 8.9%, from the same period of 2022. The net increase included: (i) $54.3 million of other operating expenses related to stand-alone acquisitions that had no comparable costs in the same period of 2022; (ii) expenses of approximately $11.0 million to resolve a business matter during the first quarter of 2023 which is not considered to be normal, recurring or part of the ongoing operations; (iii) increased variable travel and entertainment costs, offset by (iv) the year-over-year increase of approximately $46.5 million in the value of assets held to fund the associated liabilities within our deferred compensation plan, which was substantially offset within employee compensation and benefits as noted above, and (v) prior year expenses of approximately $11.5 million recorded within our Captives as a result of the estimated insured property claims associated with Hurricane Ian.

Current wording

Other operating expenses represented 14.8% of total revenues for 2024 as compared to 15.3% for the year ended December 31, 2023. Other operating expenses for 2024 increased $60 million, or 9.2%, from the same period of 2023. This change includes: (i) $27 million of other operating expenses related to stand-alone acquisitions that had no comparable costs in the same period of 2023; (ii) increased information technology-related costs; (iii) and to a lesser extent, increased variable costs associated with revenue growth, offset by (iv) the 1Q23 Nonrecurring Cost (v) other operating expenses associated with certain third-party claims administration and adjusting services businesses divested in the fourth quarter of 2023 and (vi) the year-over-year decrease of approximately $21 million in the value of assets held to fund the associated liabilities within our deferred compensation plan, which was substantially offset within employee compensation and benefits, as noted above.

Previous wording

The Company recognized net gains on disposals of $143.3 million in 2023 and $4.5 million in 2022. The gains on disposal were due to activity associated with sales of businesses or book of business. Although we do not routinely sell businesses or customer accounts, we periodically sell an office or a book of business (one or more customer accounts) that we believe does not produce reasonable margins or demonstrate a potential for growth, or because doing so is in the Company’s best interest. in 2023 we recorded a gain on disposal of $134.6 million in our Services segment associated with the sale of certain third-party claims administration and adjusting services businesses in the fourth quarter of 2023.

Current wording

The Company recognized net gains on disposals of $31 million in 2024 and $143 million in 2023. The gains on disposal were primarily attributable to the selling of certain third-party claims administration and adjusting services businesses in the fourth quarter of 2023 and settlement of certain related contingent payments in 2024. Although we do not routinely sell businesses or customer accounts, we periodically sell an office or a book of business (one or more customer accounts) that we believe does not produce reasonable margins or demonstrate a potential for adequate growth, or because doing so is in the Company’s best interest.

Previous wording

Amortization expense for 2023 increased $19.4 million to $166.0 million, or 13.2% over 2022. This increase reflects the amortization of new intangibles from businesses acquired within the past 12 months, net of certain intangible assets becoming fully amortized or written off in the gain or loss on disposal.

Current wording

Amortization expense for 2024 increased $12 million to $178 million, or 7.2% over 2023. This change reflects the amortization of new intangibles from businesses acquired within the past twelve months, net of certain intangible assets becoming fully amortized or written off in the (Gain)/Loss on disposal.

Previous wording

Depreciation expense for 2023 increased $0.8 million to $40.0 million, or 2.0% over 2022. Changes in depreciation expense reflect net additions of fixed assets resulting from businesses acquired in the past 12 months and the addition of fixed assets resulting from business initiatives, net of the impact of fixed assets that became fully depreciated or written off in the gain or loss on disposal.

Current wording

Depreciation expense for 2024 increased $4 million to $44 million, or 10.0% over 2023. Changes in depreciation expense reflect net additions of fixed assets resulting from businesses acquired in the past twelve months and the addition of fixed assets resulting from business initiatives, partially offset by the impact of fixed assets that became fully depreciated or written off in the gain or loss on disposal.

Previous wording

Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 805-Business Combinations is the authoritative guidance requiring an acquirer to recognize 100% of the fair value of acquired assets, including goodwill and assumed liabilities (with only limited exceptions) upon initially obtaining control of an acquired entity. Additionally, the fair value of contingent consideration arrangements (such as earn-out purchase price arrangements) at the acquisition date must be included in the purchase price consideration. The recorded purchase price for acquisitions includes an estimation of the fair value of liabilities associated with any potential earn-out provisions. Subsequent changes in these earn-out obligations are required to be recorded in the Consolidated Statement of Income when incurred or reasonably estimated. Estimations of potential earn-out obligations are typically based upon future earnings of the acquired operations or entities, usually for periods ranging from one to three years.

Current wording

Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 805 -Business Combinations is the authoritative guidance requiring an acquirer to recognize 100% of the fair value of acquired assets, including goodwill, and assumed liabilities (with only limited exceptions) upon initially obtaining control of an acquired entity. Additionally, the fair value of contingent consideration arrangements (such as earn-out purchase price arrangements) at the acquisition date must be included in the purchase price consideration. The recorded purchase price for acquisitions includes an estimation of the fair value of liabilities associated with any potential earn-out provisions. Subsequent changes in these earn-out obligations are required to be recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income when incurred or reasonably estimated. Estimations of potential earn-out obligations are typically based upon future earnings of the acquired operations or entities, usually for periods ranging from one to three years.

Previous wording

For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the fair value of estimated earn-out payables was reevaluated and increased by $14.1 million for 2023 and decreased by $45.9 million for 2022, which are charges and credits respectively, exclusive of interest expense accretion, to the Consolidated Statements of Income for 2023 and 2022.

Current wording

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, the fair value of estimated earn-out payables was reevaluated and decreased by $6 million for 2024 and increased by $14 million for 2023, which are credits and charges, exclusive of interest expense accretion, to the Consolidated Statements of Income for 2024 and 2023.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, the estimated acquisition earn-out payables equaled $249.2 million, of which $145.9 million was recorded as accounts payable and $103.3 million was recorded as other non-current liabilities. As of December 31, 2022, the estimated acquisition earn-out payables equaled $251.6 million, of which $119.3 million was recorded as accounts payable and $132.3 million was recorded as other non-current liabilities.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, the estimated acquisition earn-out payables equaled $167 million, of which $75 million was recorded as accounts payable and $92 million was recorded as other non-current liabilities. As of December 31, 2023, the estimated acquisition earn-out payables equaled $249 million, of which $146 million was recorded as accounts payable and $103 million was recorded as other non-current liabilities.

Previous wording

The effective tax rate on income from operations was 24.0% in 2023 and 23.3% in 2022.

Current wording

The effective tax rate on income from operations was 23.1% in 2024 and 24.1% in 2023.

Previous wording

As discussed in Note 16 “Segment Information” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, we operate four reportable segments: Retail, National Programs, Wholesale Brokerage and Services. On a segmented basis, changes in amortization, depreciation and interest expenses generally result from activity associated with acquisitions. Likewise, other income consists primarily of miscellaneous income and therefore can fluctuate between comparable periods. As such, in evaluating the operational efficiency of a segment, management focuses on the Organic Revenue growth rate and EBITDAC margin.

Current wording

As discussed in Note 15 “Segment Information” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, we operate three reportable segments: Retail, Programs and Wholesale Brokerage. On a segmented basis, changes in amortization, depreciation and interest expenses generally result from activity associated with acquisitions. Likewise, other income consists primarily of miscellaneous income and therefore can fluctuate between comparable periods. As such, management primarily focuses on the Organic Revenue growth rate and EBITDAC Margin when evaluating the operational efficiency of a segment.

Previous wording

The Retail segment includes commissions and fees reported in the “Other” column of the Segment Information table in Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, which includes corporate and consolidation items.

Current wording

The Retail segment includes commissions and fees reported as “Other” in the Segment Information table in Note 15 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, which includes corporate and consolidation items.

Previous wording

The Retail segment includes commissions and fees reported in the “Other” column of the Segment Information table in Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, which includes corporate and consolidation items. Excluding the amounts from the "Other" column the growth in commissions and fees was 17.0%.

Current wording

The Retail segment includes commissions and fees reported as “Other” in the Segment Information table in Note 15 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, which includes corporate and consolidation items.

Previous wording

The reconciliation of Total Revenues to Total Revenues - Adjusted, a non-GAAP measure, income before incomes taxes, included in the Consolidated Statement of Income, to EBITDAC, a non-GAAP measure, and EBITDAC - Adjusted, a non-GAAP measure, and Income Before Income Taxes Margin to EBITDAC Margin, a non-GAAP measure, and EBITDAC Margin - Adjusted, a non-GAAP measure, including by segment, for the year ended December 31, 2023, is as follows:

Current wording

The reconciliation of income before income taxes, included in the Consolidated Statements of Income, to EBITDAC, a non-GAAP measure, and EBITDAC - Adjusted, a non-GAAP measure, and Income Before Income Taxes Margin to EBITDAC Margin, a non-GAAP measure, and EBITDAC Margin - Adjusted, a non-GAAP measure, for the year ended December 31, 2024, including by segment, is as follows:

Previous wording

The reconciliation of Total Revenues to Total Revenues - Adjusted, a non-GAAP measure, income before incomes taxes, included in the Consolidated Statement of Income, to EBITDAC, a non-GAAP measure, and EBITDAC - Adjusted, a non-GAAP measure, and Income Before Income Taxes Margin to EBITDAC Margin, a non-GAAP measure, and EBITDAC Margin - Adjusted, a non-GAAP measure, including by segment, for the year ended December 31, 2022, is as follows:

Current wording

The reconciliation of income before income taxes, included in the Consolidated Statements of Income, to EBITDAC, a non-GAAP measure, and EBITDAC - Adjusted, a non-GAAP measure, and Income Before Income Taxes Margin to EBITDAC Margin, a non-GAAP measure, and EBITDAC Margin - Adjusted, a non-GAAP measure, for the year ended December 31, 2023, including by segment, is as follows: