HANOVER INSURANCE GROUP INC

Previous wording

The following important factors, among others, in some cases have affected, and in the future could affect, our actual results and could cause our actual results to differ materially from historical results and from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made from time to time by us on the basis of our then-current expectations. The words “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “projections,” “outlook,” should,” “could,” “plan,” “guidance,” “likely,” “on track to,” “targeted” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Our businesses are in rapidly changing and competitive markets, and involve a high degree of risk and unpredictability. Forward-looking projections are subject to these risks and unpredictability.

Current wording

The following important factors, among others, in some cases have affected, and in the future could affect, our actual results and could cause our actual results to differ materially from historical results and from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made from time to time by us on the basis of our then-current expectations. The words “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “projections,” “outlook,” should,” “could,” “plan,” “guidance,” “likely,” “on track to,” “targeted,” “designed” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Our businesses are in rapidly changing and competitive markets, and involve a high degree of risk and unpredictability. Forward-looking projections are subject to these risks and unpredictability.

Previous wording

legal, regulatory and socio-economic developments, such as new theories of insured and insurer liability and related claims and extra-contractual awards such as punitive damages, financed litigation, where a third party unrelated to a lawsuit provides capital to a plaintiff in return for a portion of any financial recovery from the lawsuit, and “social inflation” or other increases in the costs of litigation, size of jury awards or changes in applicable laws and regulations (such as changes in the thresholds affecting “no fault” liability or when non-economic damages are recoverable for bodily injury claims or coverage requirements) that impact our claim payouts;

Current wording

legal, regulatory and socio-economic developments, such as new theories of insured and insurer liability and related claims and extra-contractual awards such as punitive damages, financed litigation, where a third party unrelated to a lawsuit provides capital to a plaintiff in return for a portion of any financial recovery from the lawsuit, and “social inflation” or other increases in the costs of litigation, size of jury awards or changes in applicable laws and regulations (such as changes in the thresholds affecting “no fault” liability or when non-economic damages are recoverable for bodily injury claims or coverage requirements) that impact our claim payouts; and

Previous wording

fluctuations in interest rates, as a result of a change in monetary policy or otherwise, inflationary pressures, default rates, commodity prices, and other factors that affect net income, including with respect to investment returns and operating results for certain of our lines of business; and

Current wording

fluctuations in interest rates, as a result of a change in monetary policy or otherwise, inflationary pressures, default rates, commodity prices, and other factors that affect net income, including with respect to investment returns and operating results for certain of our lines of business.

Previous wording

We generate a significant portion of our net premiums written and earnings in Michigan, Massachusetts and other states in the Northeast. In addition, a significant amount of Core Commercial and Specialty net written premium is generated in California and Texas. For the year ended December 31, 2023, approximately 19.6% and 8.3% of our net premiums written in our business were generated in the states of Michigan and Massachusetts, respectively, and approximately 11.6% and 8.0% of our Core Commercial and approximately 13.0% and 10.2% of our Specialty net premiums written were generated in California and Texas, respectively. Many states in which we do business impose significant rate control and residual market charges, and/or restrict an insurer’s ability to exit such markets (for example, the Insurance Commissioner in California has taken steps to limit non-renewal of property policies in geographic areas prone to wildfires). The revenues and profitability of our insurance subsidiaries are subject to prevailing economic, regulatory, demographic and other conditions, including adverse weather. Because of our geographic concentration in certain regions, our business, as a whole, could be significantly affected by changes in the economic, regulatory and other conditions in such areas.

Current wording

We generate a significant portion of our net premiums written and earnings in Michigan, Massachusetts and other states in the Northeast. In addition, a significant amount of Core Commercial and Specialty net written premium is generated in California and Texas. For the year ended December 31, 2024, approximately 19.0% and 8.2% of our net premiums written in our business were generated in the states of Michigan and Massachusetts, respectively, and approximately 11.6% and 7.6% of our Core Commercial and approximately 12.5% and 10.6% of our Specialty net premiums written were generated in California and Texas, respectively. Many states in which we do business impose significant rate control and residual market charges, and/or restrict an insurer’s ability to exit such markets (for example, the Insurance Commissioner in California has taken steps to limit non-renewal of property policies in geographic areas prone to wildfires). The revenues and profitability of our insurance subsidiaries are subject to prevailing economic, regulatory, demographic and other conditions, including adverse weather. Because of our geographic concentration in certain regions, our business, as a whole, could be significantly affected by changes in the economic, regulatory and other conditions in such areas.

Previous wording

Further, certain new catastrophe models assume an increase in frequency and severity of certain weather or other events, such as fires, flooding from heavy precipitation and hurricanes, as a result of changing weather patterns and global climate change, or otherwise. Financial strength rating agencies emphasize capital and reinsurance adequacy for insurers with geographic concentrations of risk that may be subject to disproportionate risk of loss. These factors also may result in insurers seeking to diversify their geographic exposure, which could result in increased regulatory restrictions in those markets where insurers seek to exit or reduce coverage, as well as an increase in competitive pressures in less weather-exposed markets. Such actions may adversely impact top-line growth or retention while price increases and other changes in terms or conditions are exercised to manage geographical concentration.

Current wording

Further, certain new catastrophe models assume an increase in frequency and severity of certain weather or other events, such as fires, flooding from heavy precipitation and hurricanes, as a result of changing weather patterns and global climate change, or otherwise. Financial strength rating agencies emphasize capital and reinsurance adequacy for insurers with geographic concentrations of risk that may be subject to disproportionate risk of loss. These factors also may result in insurers seeking to diversify their geographic exposure, which could result in increased regulatory restrictions in those markets where insurers seek to exit or reduce coverage, as well as an increase in competitive pressures in less weather-exposed markets. Such actions may adversely impact top-line growth or retention while price increases and other changes in terms or conditions are implemented to manage geographical concentration.

Previous wording

The inherent uncertainties of estimating reserves are greater for certain types of insurance lines, particularly liability lines. These include automobile bodily injury liability, automobile personal injury protection, general liability, and workers’ compensation, where a longer period of time may elapse before a definitive determination of ultimate liability may be made (sometimes referred to as “long-tail” business), environmental liability, where the technological, judicial and political climates involving these types of claims are continuously evolving, and casualty coverages such as professional liability. The emergence of the pandemic in 2020 (the “Pandemic”) resulted in an increased level of uncertainty for many lines of business, particularly our long-tailed lines. There is also greater uncertainty in establishing reserves with respect to new business, particularly new business that is generated with respect to newer product lines, such as our cyber risks lines and specialty general liability product, by newly appointed agents, or in new geographies where we have less experience in conducting business. In these cases, there is less historical experience or knowledge and less data that the actuaries can rely on. A combination of business that is both new to us and has longer development periods, provides even greater uncertainty in estimating insurance reserves.

Current wording

The inherent uncertainties of estimating reserves are greater for certain types of insurance lines, particularly liability lines. These include automobile bodily injury liability, automobile personal injury protection, general liability, and workers’ compensation, where a longer period of time may elapse before a definitive determination of ultimate liability may be made (sometimes referred to as “long-tail” business); environmental liability, where the technological, judicial and political climates involving these types of claims are continuously evolving; and casualty coverages such as professional liability. The emergence of the pandemic in 2020 resulted in an increased level of uncertainty for many lines of business, particularly our long-tailed lines. There is also greater uncertainty in establishing reserves with respect to new business, particularly new business that is generated with respect to newer product lines, by newly appointed agents, or in new geographies where we have less experience in conducting business. In these cases, there is less historical experience or knowledge and less data on which the actuaries can rely. A combination of business that is both new to us and has longer development periods, provides even greater uncertainty in estimating insurance reserves.

Previous wording

In several Specialty lines, we are modestly increasing, and expect to continue to increase, our exposure to longer-tailed liability lines. In addition, we have experienced extensions of the “tails” in certain lines of business as the full value of claims are presented later than had been our historical experience. The broad impact of the Pandemic on the claims environment has extended these “tails” even further. Additionally, shifts in claim settlement patterns due to delayed court proceedings and other issues, contribute to the extension of “tails,” increased loss costs and greater uncertainty in reserve estimates.

Current wording

In several Specialty lines, we are modestly increasing, and expect to continue to increase, our exposure to longer-tailed liability lines. In addition, we have experienced extensions of the “tails” in certain lines of business as the full value of claims are presented later than had been our historical experience. Shifts in claim settlement patterns due to delayed court proceedings and other issues, such as third-party litigation funding, may contribute to the extension of “tails,” increased loss costs and greater uncertainty in reserve estimates.

Previous wording

Underwriting results and operating income could be adversely affected by further changes in our net loss and LAE estimates related to significant events or emerging risks, such as risks related to attacks on or breaches of information systems, including cloud-based data information storage or network systems, privacy compliance, or disruptions caused by major power grid failures or widespread electrical and electronic equipment failure due to aging infrastructure, natural factors like hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires, solar flares and pandemic or societal factors, like terrorism and civil unrest.

Current wording

Underwriting results and operating income could be adversely affected by further changes in our net loss and LAE estimates related to significant events or emerging risks, such as risks related to attacks on or breaches of information systems, including cloud-based data information storage or network systems, privacy compliance, or disruptions caused by major power grid failures or widespread electrical and electronic equipment failure due to aging infrastructure, natural factors like hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires, solar flares and pandemics, or societal factors, like terrorism and civil unrest.

Previous wording

Our business is subject to claims arising out of catastrophes that may have a significant impact on our results of operations and financial condition. We have experienced, and in the future will experience catastrophe losses, which could have a material adverse impact on our business. Catastrophes can be caused by various natural or manmade events, including hurricanes, tornadoes and other windstorms, hail, floods, earthquakes, fires, drought, severe winter weather and other convective storms, volcanic eruptions, tropical storms, tsunamis, sabotage, civil unrest, terrorist actions, explosions, nuclear accidents, solar flares, and power outages, which could be exacerbated by infrastructure failures. The frequency and severity of catastrophes are inherently unpredictable.

Current wording

Our business is subject to claims arising out of catastrophes that may have a significant impact on our results of operations and financial condition. We have experienced, and in the future will experience catastrophe losses, which could have a material adverse impact on our business. Catastrophes can be caused by various natural or manmade events, including hurricanes, tornadoes and other windstorms, hail, floods, earthquakes, fires, drought, severe winter weather and other convective storms, volcanic eruptions, tropical storms, solar flares, tsunamis, sabotage, civil unrest, terrorist actions, explosions, nuclear accidents and power outages, which could be exacerbated by infrastructure failures. The frequency and severity of catastrophes are inherently unpredictable.

Previous wording

Global climate change from rising planet temperatures over the last several decades has been linked to a number of factors that contribute to the increased unpredictability, frequency, duration and severity of weather events, including: changing weather patterns, a rise in ocean temperatures, and sea level rise. Further increases or persistence in these conditions could lead to higher overall losses, which we may not be able to recoup, particularly in a highly regulated and competitive environment, and to higher reinsurance costs. Certain catastrophe models assume an increase in frequency and severity of certain weather or other events, which could result in a disproportionate impact on insurers with certain geographic concentrations of risk. This would also likely increase the risks of writing property insurance in coastal areas or areas susceptible to wildfires or flooding, particularly in jurisdictions that restrict pricing and underwriting flexibility. The threat of rising seas or other catastrophe losses as a result of global climate change may also cause property values in coastal or such other communities to decrease, reducing the total amount of insurance coverage that is required.

Current wording

Global climate change from rising planet temperatures over the last several decades has been linked to a number of factors that contribute to the increased unpredictability, frequency, duration and severity of weather events, including: changing weather patterns, a rise in ocean temperatures, sea level rise, and drought. Further increases or persistence in these conditions could lead to higher overall losses, which we may not be able to recoup, particularly in a highly regulated and competitive environment, and to higher reinsurance costs. Certain catastrophe models assume an increase in frequency and severity of certain weather or other events, which could result in a disproportionate impact on insurers with certain geographic concentrations of risk. This would also likely increase the risks of writing property insurance in coastal areas or areas susceptible to wildfires or flooding, particularly in jurisdictions that restrict pricing and underwriting flexibility. The threat of rising seas or other catastrophe losses as a result of global climate change may also cause property values in coastal or such other communities to decrease, reducing the total amount of insurance coverage that is required.

Previous wording

In addition, global climate change and global climate change-driven systemic transitions could lead to new or enhanced regulation, which may be difficult or costly with which to comply, or impact assets in which we invest, and may result in realized and unrealized losses in future periods that could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations and/or financial position. It is not possible to foresee the impacts of potential future climate regulation, or which, if any, assets, industries or markets may be materially and adversely affected by global climate change and global climate change-driven systemic transitions, nor is it possible to foresee the magnitude of such effects.

Current wording

In addition, global climate change and global climate change-driven systemic transitions could lead to new or enhanced regulation, compliance with which may be difficult or costly, or impact assets in which we invest, and may result in realized and unrealized losses in future periods that could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations and/or financial position. It is not possible to foresee the impacts of potential future climate regulation, or which, if any, assets, industries or markets may be materially and adversely affected by global climate change and global climate change-driven systemic transitions, nor is it possible to foresee the magnitude of such effects.

Previous wording

We purchase reinsurance by transferring (known as ceding) part of the risk that we have assumed to reinsurance companies in exchange for part of the premium we receive in connection with the risk. As of December 31, 2023, our reinsurance receivable (including from the MCCA) amounted to approximately $2.1 billion. Although reinsurance makes the reinsurer liable to us to the extent the risk is transferred or ceded to the reinsurer, it does not relieve us (the reinsured) of our liability to our policyholders. Accordingly, we bear counterparty risk with respect to our reinsurers, including risks resulting from over-concentration of exposures within the industry. Although we monitor our reinsurers and their financial condition, we cannot be sure that they will pay the reinsurance recoverables owed to us currently or in the future or that they will pay such recoverables on a timely basis. The contractual obligations under reinsurance agreements are typically with individual subsidiaries of the reinsurance group and are not typically guaranteed by other group members. In certain circumstances, with “unauthorized” reinsurers or those with lower financial strength ratings, we may require collateral equal to 100% of estimated reinsurance recoverables. The collateral can serve to mitigate credit risk. In the event of losses, we may look to “draw down” on this collateral to satisfy reinsurance recoveries due to us, but if the collateral held is insufficient to meet those recoveries, we will be exposed to losses.

Current wording

We purchase reinsurance by transferring (known as ceding) part of the risk that we have assumed to reinsurance companies in exchange for part of the premium we receive in connection with the risk. As of December 31, 2024, our reinsurance receivable (including from the MCCA) amounted to approximately $2.0 billion. Although reinsurance makes the reinsurer liable to us to the extent the risk is transferred or ceded to the reinsurer, it does not relieve us (the reinsured) of our liability to our policyholders. Accordingly, we bear counterparty risk with respect to our reinsurers, including risks resulting from over-concentration of exposures within the industry. Although we monitor our reinsurers and their financial condition, we cannot be sure that they will pay the reinsurance recoverables owed to us currently or in the future or that they will pay such recoverables on a timely basis. The contractual obligations under reinsurance agreements are typically with individual subsidiaries of the reinsurance group and are not typically guaranteed by other group members. In certain circumstances, with “unauthorized” reinsurers or those with lower financial strength ratings, we may require collateral equal to 100% of estimated reinsurance recoverables. The collateral can serve to mitigate credit risk. In the event of losses, we may look to “draw down” on this collateral to satisfy reinsurance recoveries due to us, but if the collateral held is insufficient to meet those recoveries, we will be exposed to losses.

Previous wording

Our insurance businesses are subject to supervision and regulation by the state insurance authority in each state where we transact business. This system of supervision and regulation relates to numerous aspects of an insurance company’s business and financial condition, including limitations on the authorization of lines of business, underwriting limitations, the ability to utilize credit-based insurance scores, pricing models, artificial intelligence, gender, geographic location, information publicly available (such as on social media), education, occupation, income or other factors in underwriting, the ability to terminate agents, supervisory and liability responsibilities for agents, the setting of premium rates, the requirement to write certain classes of business that we might otherwise avoid or charge different premium rates, restrictions on the ability to withdraw from certain lines of business or terminate policies or classes of policyholders, the establishment of standards of solvency, the licensing of insurers and agents, compensation of and contractual arrangements with independent agents, concentration of investments, levels of reserves, the payment of dividends, transactions with affiliates, changes of control, protection of private information of our agents, policyholders, claimants and others (which may include highly sensitive financial or medical information or other private information such as social security numbers, driving records or driver’s license numbers) and the approval of policy forms. From time to time, various states and Congress have proposed to prohibit or otherwise restrict the use of credit-based insurance scores or other risk-based pricing factors in underwriting or rating our Personal Lines business. The elimination of the use of risk-based pricing factors could cause significant disruption to our business and our confidence in our pricing and underwriting. Most insurance regulations are designed to protect the interests of policyholders rather than stockholders and other investors.

Current wording

Our insurance businesses are subject to supervision and regulation by the state insurance authority in each state where we transact business. This system of supervision and regulation relates to numerous aspects of an insurance company’s business and financial condition, including limitations on the authorization of lines of business, underwriting limitations, the ability to utilize credit-based insurance scores, pricing models, artificial intelligence (“AI”), gender, geographic location, information publicly available (such as on social media), education, occupation, income or other factors in underwriting, the setting of premium rates, the requirement to write certain classes of business that we might otherwise avoid or charge different premium rates, restrictions on the ability to withdraw from certain lines of business or terminate policies or classes of policyholders and the approval of policy forms, the establishment of standards of solvency, the licensing of insurers and agents, the ability to terminate agents, supervisory and liability responsibilities for agents, compensation of and contractual arrangements with independent agents, concentration of investments, levels of reserves, the payment of dividends, transactions with affiliates, changes of control, information security, protection of private information of our agents, policyholders, claimants and others (which may include highly sensitive financial or medical information or other private information such as social security numbers, driving records or driver’s license numbers). From time to time, various states and Congress have proposed to prohibit or otherwise restrict the use of credit-based insurance scores or other risk-based pricing factors in underwriting or rating our Personal Lines business. The elimination of the use of risk-based pricing factors could cause significant disruption to our business and our confidence in our pricing and underwriting. Most insurance regulations are designed to protect the interests of policyholders rather than stockholders and other investors.

Previous wording

In most years, MCCA operates with a deficit, which may fluctuate significantly based on investment returns, discount rates, incurred claims, annual assessments and other factors, although historically its annual operations have been cash flow positive. As of December 31, 2023, our estimated reinsurance recoverable from the MCCA was $911.7 million. This estimate is subject to change and will be revised further as the actual impacts of these cost saving measures emerge in the future, or in the event that recent legal challenges or legislative revisions to the reform ultimately prevail.

Current wording

In most years, MCCA operates with a deficit, which may fluctuate significantly based on investment returns, discount rates, incurred claims, annual assessments and other factors, although historically its annual operations have been cash flow positive. As of December 31, 2024, our estimated reinsurance recoverable from the MCCA was $870.4 million. This estimate is subject to change and will be revised further as the actual impacts of these cost saving measures emerge in the future, or in the event that recent legal challenges or legislative revisions to the reform ultimately prevail.

Previous wording

For the year ending December 31, 2023, Michigan personal automobile insurance represented approximately 43% of our total personal automobile net premiums written. PIP net written premium (which does not include the MCCA pass-through assessment) represents approximately 21% of those Michigan personal automobile premiums. It is not clear at this time whether projected savings from the various cost control measures, assuming they remain in effect, will be commensurate with the required PIP reductions and rate controls. Accordingly, there is increased uncertainty attributable to these changes regarding the future performance of our Michigan personal automobile lines.

Current wording

For the year ending December 31, 2024, Michigan personal automobile insurance represented approximately 41% of our total personal automobile net premiums written. PIP net written premium (which does not include the MCCA pass-through assessment) represents approximately 20% of those Michigan personal automobile premiums. It is not clear at this time whether projected savings from the various cost control measures, assuming they remain in effect, will be commensurate with the required PIP reductions and rate controls. Accordingly, there is increased uncertainty attributable to these changes regarding the future performance of our Michigan personal automobile lines.

Previous wording

In addition, we may be adversely affected by liabilities resulting from our previous participation in certain voluntary property and casualty assumed reinsurance pools. We have terminated our participation in virtually all property and casualty voluntary pools, but we remain subject to claims related to the periods when we participated. The property and casualty industry’s assumed reinsurance businesses have suffered substantial losses during the past several years, particularly related to environmental and asbestos exposure for property and casualty coverages, in some cases resulting from incidents alleged to have occurred decades ago. Due to the inherent volatility in these businesses, possible issues related to the enforceability of reinsurance treaties in the industry and the continuing history of increased losses, we cannot provide assurance that our current reserves are adequate or that we will not incur losses in the future. Our operating results and financial position may be adversely affected by liabilities resulting from any such claims in excess of our loss estimates. As of December 31, 2023, our gross reserves totaled $36.9 million for these legacy voluntary property and casualty assumed reinsurance pools, with the largest being the Excess Casualty Reinsurance Association (“ECRA”) pool. During 2021, we entered into a reinsurance agreement whereby we agreed to cede 100% of the ECRA business to a third-party reinsurer. The ECRA business represents approximately 89% of our 2023 gross reserves for these legacy voluntary pools.

Current wording

In addition, we may be adversely affected by liabilities resulting from our previous participation in certain voluntary property and casualty assumed reinsurance pools. We have terminated our participation in virtually all property and casualty voluntary pools, but we remain subject to claims related to the periods when we participated. The property and casualty industry’s assumed reinsurance businesses have suffered substantial losses during the past several years, particularly related to environmental and asbestos exposure for property and casualty coverages, in some cases resulting from incidents alleged to have occurred decades ago. Due to the inherent volatility in these businesses, possible issues related to the enforceability of reinsurance treaties in the industry and the continuing history of increased losses, we cannot provide assurance that our current reserves are adequate or that we will not incur losses in the future. Our operating results and financial position may be adversely affected by liabilities resulting from any such claims in excess of our loss estimates. As of December 31, 2024, our gross reserves totaled $35.5 million for these legacy voluntary property and casualty assumed reinsurance pools, with the largest being the Excess Casualty Reinsurance Association (“ECRA”) pool. During 2021, we entered into a reinsurance agreement whereby we ceded 100% of the ECRA business to a third-party reinsurer. In 2024, we novated the prior agreement to another third-party reinsurer with no material change in terms. The ECRA business represents approximately 90% of our 2024 gross reserves for these legacy voluntary pools.

Previous wording

All fifty U.S. states and the District of Columbia have insurance guaranty fund laws requiring property and casualty insurance companies doing business within the state to participate in guaranty associations. These associations are organized to pay contractual obligations under insurance policies issued by impaired or insolvent insurance companies. The associations levy assessments, up to prescribed limits, on all member insurers in a particular state based on the proportionate share of the premiums written by member insurers in the lines of business that the impaired or insolvent insurer is engaged in. Although mandatory assessments by state guaranty funds that are used to cover losses to policyholders of insolvent or rehabilitated companies can be substantially recovered over time through policyholder surcharges or a reduction in future premium taxes in many states (provided the collecting insurer continues to write business in such state), there can be no assurance that all funds will be recoupable in the future. During 2023, we had a total assessment of $4.0 million levied against us, with refunds of $0.2 million received in 2023, for a total net assessment of $3.8 million. As of December 31, 2023, we had $1.8 million of reserves related to guaranty fund assessments. In the future, these assessments may increase above levels experienced in prior years. Future increases in these assessments depend upon the rate of insolvencies of insurance companies.

Current wording

All fifty U.S. states and the District of Columbia have insurance guaranty fund laws requiring property and casualty insurance companies doing business within the state to participate in guaranty associations. These associations are organized to pay contractual obligations under insurance policies issued by impaired or insolvent insurance companies. The associations levy assessments, up to prescribed limits, on all member insurers in a particular state based on the proportionate share of the premiums written by member insurers in the lines of business that the impaired or insolvent insurer is engaged in. Although mandatory assessments by state guaranty funds that are used to cover losses to policyholders of insolvent or rehabilitated companies can be substantially recovered over time through policyholder surcharges or a reduction in future premium taxes in many states (provided the collecting insurer continues to write business in such state), there can be no assurance that all funds will be recoupable in the future. During 2024, we had a total assessment of $2.8 million levied against us. As of December 31, 2024, we had $2.3 million of reserves related to guaranty fund assessments. In the future, these assessments may increase above levels experienced in prior years. Future increases in these assessments depend upon the rate of insolvencies of insurance companies.

Previous wording

We are subject to litigation risks, including risks relating to the application and interpretation of insurance and reinsurance contracts and our handling of claim matters (which can lead to bad faith and other forms of extra-contractual liability), and are routinely involved in litigation that challenges specific terms and language incorporated into property and casualty contracts, such as claims reimbursements, covered perils and exclusion clauses, among others, or the interpretation or administration of such contracts, including with respect to Pandemic-related litigation. We are also involved in legal actions that do not arise in the ordinary course of business, some of which assert claims for substantial amounts. Adverse outcomes could materially affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

We are subject to litigation risks, including risks relating to the application and interpretation of insurance and reinsurance contracts and our handling of claim matters (which can lead to bad faith and other forms of extra-contractual liability), and are routinely involved in litigation that challenges specific terms and language incorporated into property and casualty contracts, such as claims reimbursements, covered perils and exclusion clauses, among others, or the interpretation or administration of such contracts. We are also involved in legal actions that do not arise in the ordinary course of business, some of which, from time to time, assert claims for substantial amounts. Adverse outcomes could materially affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

We periodically review the agencies, including managing general agencies, with whom we do business to identify those that do not meet our profitability standards or are not aligned with our business objectives. Following these periodic reviews, we may restrict such agencies’ access to certain types of policies or terminate our relationship with them, subject to applicable contractual and regulatory requirements that limit our ability to terminate agents or require us to renew policies. Even through the utilization of these measures, we may not achieve the desired results.

Current wording

We periodically review the agencies, including managing general agencies, with which we do business to identify those that do not meet our profitability standards or are not aligned with our business objectives. Following these periodic reviews, we may restrict such agencies’ access to certain types of insurance products or terminate our relationship with them, subject to applicable contractual and regulatory requirements that limit our ability to terminate agents or require us to renew policies. Even through the utilization of these measures, we may not achieve the desired results.

Previous wording

We are required to safeguard the confidential personal information of our customers and applicants. We are subject to an increasing number of federal, state, local and international laws and regulations regarding privacy and data security, as well as contractual commitments. These laws and regulations are rapidly evolving, complex, vary significantly from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, and sometimes conflict. In the absence of updated, uniform federal privacy legislation, there is a growing trend in the states in which we operate, to adopt comprehensive privacy legislation that provides consumers with various privacy rights and imposes significant compliance burdens on covered companies. Failure to comply with data security or privacy laws or regulations could subject us to regulatory enforcement actions and fines, penalties, litigation, private rights of action or public statements against us by consumer advocacy groups or others if confidential customer information is misappropriated from our computer systems, those of our vendors or others with whom we do business, or otherwise. Despite the security measures that may be in place, any such systems may be vulnerable to the types of attacks and security incidents described above. Any well-publicized compromise of security could deter people from entering into transactions that involve transmitting confidential information, impart reputational or other harm, and/or have a material adverse effect on our business. Additionally, privacy legislation may make our business partners more reluctant to share information with us that is useful in conducting our business.

Current wording

We are required to safeguard the confidential personal information of our customers and applicants. We are subject to an increasing number of federal, state, local and international laws and regulations regarding privacy, data security, and the use of AI, as well as contractual commitments. These laws and regulations are rapidly evolving, complex, vary significantly from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, and sometimes conflict. In the absence of updated, uniform federal privacy legislation, there is a growing trend in the states in which we operate, to adopt comprehensive privacy legislation that provides consumers with various privacy rights and imposes significant compliance burdens on covered companies. Failure to comply with data security or privacy laws or regulations could subject us to regulatory enforcement actions and fines, penalties, litigation, private rights of action or public statements against us by consumer advocacy groups or others if confidential customer information is misappropriated from our computer systems, those of our vendors or others with whom we do business, or otherwise. Despite the security measures that may be in place, any such systems may be vulnerable to the types of attacks and security incidents described above. Any well-publicized compromise of security could deter people from entering into transactions that involve transmitting confidential information, impart reputational or other harm, and/or have a material adverse effect on our business. Additionally, privacy legislation may make our business partners more reluctant to share information with us that is useful in conducting our business.

Previous wording

The industry and we are challenged by changing practices caused by the Internet, application-based programs relying on algorithms and computer modeling to underwrite policies and administer claims, and the increased usage of real time comparative rating tools and claims management processes, which have led to greater competition in the insurance business in general, particularly on the basis of price and pressure to reduce coverages to compete on price and to respond to customer requests as quickly as possible.

Current wording

The industry and we are challenged by changing practices caused by the Internet, the increasing use of AI, application-based programs relying on algorithms and computer modeling to underwrite policies and administer claims, and the increased usage of real time comparative rating tools and claims management processes, which have led to greater competition in the insurance business in general, particularly on the basis of price and pressure to reduce coverages to compete on price and to respond to customer requests as quickly as possible.

Previous wording

On December 28, 2018, we sold the majority of our Chaucer business (specifically our U.K.-based Lloyd’s entities) to China Re, with the rest of the Chaucer sale completed in April 2019. In connection with these transactions, we made certain representations and warranties and agreed to indemnify China Re for certain pre-sale contingent liabilities, including tax and litigation matters.

Current wording

On December 28, 2018, we sold the majority of our Chaucer business (specifically our U.K.-based Lloyd’s entities) to China Re, with the rest of the Chaucer sale completed in April 2019. In connection with these transactions, we made certain representations and warranties and agreed to indemnify China Re for certain pre-sale contingent liabilities, including tax matters.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023, we held approximately $9.2 billion of investment assets in categories such as fixed maturities, limited partnerships, commercial mortgage loans, equity securities, other investments, and cash and short-term investments. Our investments are primarily concentrated in the domestic market. Our investment returns, and thus our profitability, statutory surplus and shareholders’ equity, may be adversely affected from time to time by conditions affecting our specific investments and, more generally, by bond, stock, real estate and other market fluctuations and general economic, market and political conditions, changing government policies, including monetary policies, and geopolitical risks (which may include the impact of terrorism in various parts of the world, pandemic events, and hostilities in the Middle East and Ukraine). These broader market conditions are out of our control. Our ability to make a profit on insurance products depends in significant part on the returns on investments supporting our obligations under these products, and the value of specific investments may fluctuate substantially depending on the foregoing conditions. We may use a variety of strategies to hedge our exposure to interest rates and other market risks. However, hedging strategies are not always available and carry certain credit risks, and our hedging could be ineffective. Moreover, increased government regulation of certain derivative transactions used to hedge certain market risks has served to prevent (or otherwise substantially increase the cost associated with) hedging such risks.

Current wording

At December 31, 2024, we held approximately $9.8 billion of investment assets in categories such as fixed maturities, limited partnerships, commercial mortgage loans, equity securities, other investments, and cash and short-term investments. Our investments are primarily concentrated in the domestic market. Our investment returns, and thus our profitability, statutory surplus and shareholders’ equity, may be adversely affected from time to time by conditions affecting our specific investments and, more generally, by bond, stock, real estate and other market fluctuations and general economic, market and political conditions, changing government policies, including monetary policies, and geopolitical risks (which may include the impact of terrorism in various parts of the world, pandemic events, and hostilities in the Middle East and Ukraine). These broader market conditions are out of our control. Our ability to make a profit on insurance products depends in significant part on the returns on investments supporting our obligations under these products, and the value of specific investments may fluctuate substantially depending on the foregoing conditions. We may use a variety of strategies to hedge our exposure to interest rates and other market risks. However, hedging strategies are not always available and carry certain credit risks, and our hedging could be ineffective. Moreover, increased government regulation of certain derivative transactions used to hedge certain market risks has served to prevent (or otherwise substantially increase the cost associated with) hedging such risks.

Previous wording

Deterioration in the global financial markets may adversely affect our investment portfolio and have a related impact on our other comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity and overall investment performance. In response to growing inflation, monetary policies in developed economies have tightened. Tighter financial conditions pose a challenge to the economy and may increase the likelihood of defaults on our fixed income investments, particularly with respect to non-investment grade debt securities. Also, the effects of geo-political developments and conditions in global financial markets could change rapidly in ways that we cannot anticipate, resulting in additional realized and unrealized losses.

Current wording

Deterioration in the global financial markets may adversely affect our investment portfolio and have a related impact on our other comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity and overall investment performance. In response to growing inflation, monetary policies in developed economies tightened in recent years, though easing has begun in the U.S. Despite the easing, financial conditions continue to be tight and remain a challenge to the U.S. economy. Tighter financial conditions pose a challenge to the economy and may increase the likelihood of defaults on our fixed income investments, particularly with respect to non-investment grade debt securities. Also, the effects of geo-political developments and conditions in global financial markets could change rapidly in ways that we cannot anticipate, resulting in additional realized and unrealized losses.

Previous wording

Market conditions also affect the value of assets under our employee pension plans, including our qualified defined benefit plan. The expense or benefit related to this plan results from several factors, including, but not limited to, changes in the market value of plan assets, interest rates, regulatory requirements or judicial interpretation of benefits. At December 31, 2023, our plan assets included approximately 90% of fixed maturities and 10% of equity securities and other assets. Additionally, our qualified plan assets exceeded liabilities by $14.6 million at December 31, 2023. Declines in the market value of plan assets and lower interest rates from levels at December 31, 2023, among other factors, could impact our funding estimates and negatively affect our results of operations. Deterioration in market conditions and differences between our assumptions and actual occurrences and behaviors, could result in a need to fund more into the qualified plan to maintain an appropriate funding level.

Current wording

Market conditions also affect the value of assets under our employee pension plans, including our qualified defined benefit plan. The expense or benefit related to this plan results from several factors, including, but not limited to, changes in the market value of plan assets, interest rates, regulatory requirements or judicial interpretation of benefits. At December 31, 2024, our plan assets included approximately 90% of fixed maturities and 10% of equity securities and other assets. Additionally, our qualified plan assets exceeded liabilities by $8.9 million at December 31, 2024. Declines in the market value of plan assets and lower interest rates from levels at December 31, 2024, among other factors, could impact our funding estimates and negatively affect our results of operations. Deterioration in market conditions and differences between our assumptions and actual occurrences and behaviors, could result in a need to fund more into the qualified plan to maintain an appropriate funding level.

Previous wording

We are exposed to significant capital market risks related to changes in interest rates, credit spreads, equity prices and, to a lesser extent, real estate market conditions. Significant declines in equity prices and real estate market conditions, changes in interest rates, and changes in credit spreads each could have a material adverse effect on our results, financial position or cash flows. Our exposure to interest rate risk relates primarily to the market price and cash flow variability associated with changes in interest rates. Our investment portfolio contains interest rate sensitive instruments, such as fixed income securities, which may be adversely affected by changes in interest rates from governmental monetary policies, domestic and international economic and political conditions and other factors beyond our control. A rise in market yields would reduce the fair value of our investment portfolio, but it provides the opportunity to earn higher rates of return on funds reinvested. A decline in interest rates, on the other hand, would increase the fair value of our investment portfolio, but we would earn lower rates of return on reinvested assets. We may be forced to liquidate investments prior to maturity at a loss in order to cover liabilities, and such liquidation could be accelerated in the event of significant loss events, such as catastrophes. Although we take measures to manage the economic risks of investing in a changing interest rate environment, we may not be able to mitigate the interest rate risk of our assets relative to our liabilities.

Current wording

We are exposed to significant capital market risks related to changes in interest rates, credit spreads, equity prices, and real estate market conditions. Significant declines in equity prices and real estate market conditions, changes in interest rates, and changes in credit spreads each could have a material adverse effect on our results, financial position or cash flows. Our exposure to interest rate risk relates primarily to the market price and cash flow variability associated with changes in interest rates. Our investment portfolio contains interest rate sensitive instruments, such as fixed income securities, which may be adversely affected by changes in interest rates from governmental monetary policies, domestic and international economic and political conditions and other factors beyond our control. A rise in market yields would reduce the fair value of our investment portfolio, but it provides the opportunity to earn higher rates of return on funds reinvested. A decline in interest rates, on the other hand, would increase the fair value of our investment portfolio, but we would earn lower rates of return on reinvested assets. We may be forced to liquidate investments prior to maturity at a loss in order to cover liabilities, and such liquidation could be accelerated in the event of significant loss events, such as catastrophes. Although we take measures to manage the economic risks of investing in a changing interest rate environment, we may not be able to mitigate the interest rate risk of our assets relative to our liabilities.

Previous wording

Our investment portfolio is invested primarily in high quality, investment-grade fixed income securities. However, we also invest in non-investment-grade high-yield fixed income securities, limited partnerships, and commercial mortgage loans. These securities, which pay a higher rate of interest, also have a higher degree of credit or default risk. These securities may also be less liquid in times of economic weakness or market disruptions. The issuers of high-yield fixed income securities, limited partnerships that hold equity ownership positions in real properties and invest in debt secured by real properties, and borrowers under the commercial mortgage loans we make may be affected by downturns in the economy or real estate values and may default on their obligations to us. Additionally, reported values of our investments do not necessarily reflect the lowest current market price for the asset, and if we require significant amounts of cash on short notice, we may have difficulty selling our investments in a timely manner, be forced to sell them for less than we otherwise would have been able to realize, or both. While we have procedures to monitor the credit risk and liquidity of our invested assets, we expect from time to time, and particularly in periods of economic weakness, to experience default losses in our portfolio. This would result in a corresponding reduction of net income, capital and cash flows.

Current wording

Our investment portfolio is invested primarily in high quality, investment-grade fixed income securities. However, we also invest in non-investment-grade fixed income securities, limited partnerships, and commercial mortgage loans. These securities, which pay a higher rate of interest, also have a higher degree of credit or default risk. These securities may also be less liquid in times of economic weakness or market disruptions. The issuers of high-yield fixed income securities, limited partnerships that hold equity ownership positions in real properties and invest in debt secured by real properties, and borrowers under the commercial mortgage loans we make may be affected by downturns in the economy or real estate values and may default on their obligations to us. Additionally, reported values of our investments do not necessarily reflect the lowest current market price for the asset, and if we require significant amounts of cash on short notice, we may have difficulty selling our investments in a timely manner, be forced to sell them for less than we otherwise would have been able to realize, or both. While we have procedures to monitor the credit risk and liquidity of our invested assets, we expect from time to time, and particularly in periods of economic weakness, to experience default losses in our portfolio. This would result in a corresponding reduction of net income, capital and cash flows.

Previous wording

Errors or omissions, misconduct or fraud in connection with the administration of any of our insurance or investment management operations may cause our business and profitability to be negatively impacted.

Current wording

Errors or omissions, misconduct or fraud in connection with the administration of any of our insurance operations may cause our business and profitability to be negatively impacted.