EVEREST GROUP LTD
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Feb 27, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Feb 27, 2025
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-02-28.
0001095073-24-000009
Item 1A. Risk FactorsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-02-27.
0001095073-25-000015
Item 1A. Risk FactorsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 135 previous paragraphs and 151 current paragraphs.
100 unchanged; 33 reworded; 17 added; 1 removed; 1 previous and 1 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 3 previous and 3 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (17)
Current report
Unfavorable loss development may adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.
Current report
The effects of emerging claim and coverage issues on our business are uncertain.
Current report
As industry practices and legislative, regulatory, judicial, social, financial, technological and other environmental conditions change, unexpected and unintended issues related to claims and coverage may emerge. These issues may adversely affect our business by either extending coverage beyond our underwriting intent or by increasing the frequency and severity of claims. Examples of emerging claims and coverage issues include, but are not limited to:
Current report
•judicial expansion of policy coverage and a greater propensity to grant claimants more favorable amounts and the impact of new theories of liability;
Current report
•plaintiffs targeting property and casualty insurers in purported class action litigation relating to claims-handling and other practices;
Current report
•social inflation trends, including higher and more frequent claims, higher awards in favor of plaintiffs and increases in the value of claims due to third party funding;
Current report
•medical developments that link health issues to particular causes, resulting in liability claims;
Current report
•claims relating to unanticipated consequences of current or new technologies, including cyber security-related risks; and
Current report
•claims relating to potentially changing climate conditions.
Current report
In some instances, these emerging issues may not become apparent for some time after we have issued the affected insurance policies. As a result, the full extent of liability under our insurance or reinsurance contracts may not be known for many years after issuance.
Current report
We have exposure to counterparties through a variety of commercial transactions and arrangements, including reinsurance transactions and agreements with banks, hedge funds and other investment vehicles that expose us to credit risk in the event our counterparty fails to perform its obligations.
Current report
We may require additional capital or financing sources in the future, which may not be available or may be available only on unfavorable terms.
Current report
Our future capital requirements depend on many factors, including rating agency and regulatory requirements, the performance of our investment portfolio, our ability to write new business successfully, the frequency and severity of catastrophe events and our ability to establish premium rates and loss reserves at levels sufficient to cover losses. We may need to raise additional funds through debt or equity financings or access funds through existing or new credit facilities or through short-term repurchase agreements. We may also from time to time seek to refinance debt as amounts become due or commitments expire. Any equity or debt financing or refinancing, if available at all, may be on terms that are not favorable to us. In the case of equity financings, dilution to our shareholders could result, and in any case, such securities may have rights, preferences and privileges that are senior to those of our common shares. Our access to funds under existing credit facilities is dependent on the ability of the banks that are party to the facilities to meet their funding commitments.
Current report
In January 2025, James Williamson, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, was appointed President and CEO and member of the Board of Directors after the departure of our former President and CEO, Juan Andrade.
Current report
We rely on our processes, people and systems to maintain our operations and manage the operational risks inherent to our business. Any errors, omissions or misconduct by our employees or third-party agents in the execution of these processes could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Current report
We rely on our processes, people and systems to maintain and execute our operations. We seek to monitor and control our exposure to risks arising from these processes through an enterprise risk management framework, internal controls, management review and other processes. We cannot provide total assurance that these processes will effectively identify or control all risks, or that our employees and third-party agents will effectively execute them. Losses may result from, among other things, actual or alleged fraud; errors; or failure to document transactions properly, obtain proper internal authorization, comply with underwriting or other internal guidelines or comply with regulatory requirements. It is not always possible to deter or prevent employee misconduct, and the precautions that we take to prevent and detect this activity may not be effective in all cases. Resulting losses could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Current report
Exposure to cybersecurity risk is increasing systematically due to greater digital dependence and increased possible losses due to a catastrophic cybersecurity event. Cyber catastrophes are not bound by time or geographic limitations and cyber catastrophic perils do not have well-established definitions and fundamental physical properties. Rather, cybersecurity risks are engineered by human actors and thus are continuously evolving, often in ways that are engineered specifically to evade established loss mitigation controls. Any losses incurred from these risks are also dependent on our clients’ and our third-party service providers' cybersecurity practices and defenses, as well as how policy terms and conditions interact with the evolving threat landscape.
Removed paragraphs (1)
Previous report
If our loss reserves are inadequate to meet our actual losses, our net income would be reduced or we could incur a loss.
Reworded paragraphs (33)
Previous wording
Our business, results of operations and financial conditions are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties. While we seek to identify, manage and mitigate risks to our business, risk and uncertainty cannot be eliminated or necessarily predicted. In connection with any investment decision with respect to our securities, you should carefully consider the following risk factors, as well as the other information contained in this report and our other filings with the SEC. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business operations. Should any of these risks materialize, actual results could differ materially from the disclosed information, the trading value of our securities could be negatively impacted and our business, financial condition, and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
Current wording
Our business, results of operations and financial conditions are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties. While we seek to identify, manage and mitigate risks to our business, risk and uncertainty cannot be eliminated or necessarily predicted. In connection with any investment decision with respect to our securities, you should carefully consider the following risk factors, as well as the other information contained in this report and our other filings with the SEC. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business operations. Should any of these risks materialize, actual results may differ materially from the disclosed information, the trading value of our securities could be negatively impacted and our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
Previous wording
We are exposed to unpredictable catastrophic events, including weather-related and other natural catastrophes, as well as acts of terrorism and wars. The frequency and/or severity of catastrophic events may be impacted in the future by the continued effects of climate change. Climate change and resulting changes in global temperatures, weather patterns, and sea levels may both increase the frequency and severity of natural catastrophes and the resulting losses in the future and impact our risk modeling assumptions. We cannot predict the impact that changing climate conditions, if any, may have on our results of operations or our financial condition. Additionally, we cannot predict how legal, regulatory and/or social responses to concerns around global climate change and the resulting impact on various sectors of the economy may impact our business. Any material reduction in our operating results caused by the occurrence of one or more catastrophes could inhibit our ability to pay dividends or to meet our interest and principal payment obligations. By way of illustration, during the past five calendar years, pre-tax catastrophe losses, net of reinsurance, were as follows:
Current wording
We are exposed to unpredictable catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, weather-related and other natural catastrophes, as well as acts of terrorism and wars. The frequency and/or severity of catastrophic events may be impacted in the future by the continued effects of climate change. Climate change and resulting changes in global temperatures, weather patterns, and sea levels may both increase the frequency and severity of natural catastrophes and the resulting losses in the future and impact our risk modeling assumptions. We cannot predict the impact that changing climate conditions, if any, may have on our results of operations or our financial condition. Additionally, we cannot predict how legal, regulatory and/or social responses to concerns around global climate change and the resulting impact on various sectors of the economy may impact our business. Any material reduction in our operating results caused by the occurrence of one or more catastrophes could inhibit our ability to pay dividends or to meet our interest and principal payment obligations. By way of illustration, during the past five calendar years, pre-tax catastrophe losses, net of reinsurance, were as follows:
Previous wording
We are required to maintain reserves to cover our estimated ultimate liability of losses and LAE for both reported and unreported claims incurred. These reserves are only estimates of what we believe the settlement and administration of claims will cost based on facts and circumstances known to us. In setting reserves for our reinsurance liabilities, we rely on claims data supplied by our ceding companies and brokers, and we employ actuarial and statistical projections. The information received from our ceding companies is not always timely or accurate, which can contribute to inaccuracies in our loss projections. Because of the uncertainties that surround our estimates of loss and LAE reserves, we cannot be certain that ultimate losses and LAE payments will not exceed our estimates. If our reserves are deficient, we would be required to increase loss reserves in the period in which such deficiencies are identified which would cause a charge to our earnings and a reduction of capital. During the past five calendar years, the reserve re-estimation process resulted in an increase to our pre-tax net income in 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2019 and resulted in a decrease to our pre-tax net income in 2020:
Current wording
We are required to maintain reserves to cover our ultimate liability of losses and LAE for both reported and unreported claims. These reserves are only estimates of what we believe the ultimate settlement and administration of claims will cost based on facts and circumstances known to us and actuarial and statistical analysis. Loss reserve estimates are reconsidered, as necessary, as experience develops and to reflect other changes in circumstances that may affect our estimate of ultimate loss, and this could potentially result in increases to our reserves. In setting reserves for our reinsurance liabilities, we rely on claims data supplied by our ceding companies and brokers, along with other data that may affect our estimate of ultimate loss and actuarial and statistical analysis to arrive at an estimate of ultimate liability for losses and LAE. The information received from our ceding companies is not always timely or accurate, which can contribute to inaccuracies in our loss projections. For the insurance and reinsurance businesses, ultimate losses may differ materially from our expectations at the time we underwrite the business. Because of the uncertainties that surround our estimates of loss and LAE reserves, we cannot be certain that ultimate losses and LAE payments will not exceed the estimates we make at any given time. For example, in the quarter ended December 31, 2024, the Company increased its loss reserves by $1.7 billion, pre-tax, primarily driven by unfavorable development in U.S. casualty insurance lines of business. Loss experience in these lines of business is very unpredictable and has been exacerbated by social inflation factors such as uncertain legal system outcomes, increased frequency of high-severity claims and third-party litigation funding. If our reserves are deficient in future periods, we may be required to increase loss reserves in the period in which such deficiencies are identified which would cause a charge to our earnings, a reduction of capital and could result in adverse effects on our business, financial condition, results of operation or liquidity.
Previous wording
The difficulty in estimating our reserves is significantly more challenging as it relates to reserving for potential A&E liabilities. As of December 31, 2023, 1.0% of our gross reserves were comprised of A&E reserves. A&E liabilities are especially hard to estimate for many reasons, including the long delays between exposure and manifestation of any bodily injury or property damage, difficulty in identifying the source of the asbestos or environmental contamination, long reporting delays and difficulty in properly allocating liability for the asbestos or environmental damage. Legal tactics and judicial and legislative developments affecting the scope of insurers’ liability, which can be difficult to predict, also contribute to uncertainties in estimating reserves for A&E liabilities.
Current wording
The difficulty in estimating our reserves is significantly more challenging as it relates to reserving for potential A&E liabilities. As of December 31, 2024, 0.9% of our gross reserves were comprised of A&E reserves. A&E liabilities are especially hard to estimate for many reasons, including the long delays between exposure and manifestation of any bodily injury or property damage, difficulty in identifying the source of the asbestos or environmental contamination, long reporting delays and difficulty in properly allocating liability for the asbestos or environmental damage. Legal tactics and judicial and legislative developments affecting the scope of insurers’ liability, which can be difficult to predict, also contribute to uncertainties in estimating reserves for A&E liabilities. In addition, since reserve estimates of aggregate loss costs for prior years are sometimes factored into pricing our insurance products, inaccurate reserves can lead to our products not being priced adequately to cover actual losses and related loss expenses in order to generate a profit.
Previous wording
Our success depends on our ability to accurately assess the risks associated with the businesses on which the risk is retained. If we fail to accurately assess the risks we retain, we may fail to establish adequate premium rates to cover our losses and LAE. This could reduce our net income and even result in a net loss.
Current wording
Our success depends on our ability to accurately assess the risks associated with the businesses on which the risk is retained. If we fail to accurately assess the risks we retain, we may fail to establish adequate premium rates or contract terms (i.e. limits, deductibles, etc.) to cover our losses and LAE. This could reduce our net income and even result in a net loss.
Previous wording
If we are unable or choose not to purchase reinsurance and transfer risk to the reinsurance markets, our net income could be reduced or we could incur a net loss in the event of unusual loss experience.
Current wording
If we are unable to or choose not to purchase reinsurance and transfer risk to the reinsurance markets, our net income could be reduced or we could incur a net loss in the event of unusual loss experience.
Previous wording
If our debt ratings are downgraded, we could incur higher borrowing costs, higher cost of capital, and our ability to access the capital markets at attractive rates could be impacted. We are unable to provide any guarantees on whether or not or ratings may be downgraded by any of our rating agencies in the future.
Current wording
If our debt ratings are downgraded, we could incur higher borrowing costs, higher cost of capital, increased collateral requirements and our ability to access the capital markets at attractive rates could be impacted. We are unable to provide assurances as to whether or not our ratings may be downgraded by any of the rating agencies in the future.
Previous wording
We have invested a portion of our investment portfolio in equity securities. The value of these assets fluctuates with changes in the markets. In times of economic weakness, the fair value of these assets may decline, and may negatively impact net income. We also invest in non-traditional investments which have different risk characteristics than traditional fixed income and equity securities. These alternative investments are comprised primarily of private equity limited partnerships. The changes in value and investment income/(loss) for these partnerships may be more volatile than over-the-counter securities.
Current wording
We have invested a portion of our investment portfolio in equity securities. The value of these assets fluctuates with changes in the markets. In times of economic weakness, the fair value of these assets may decline. We also invest in non-traditional investments which have different risk characteristics than traditional fixed income and equity securities. These alternative investments are comprised primarily of private equity limited partnerships.
Previous wording
The failure to maintain access to enough cash, readily salable or unencumbered financial assets to meet near-term financial obligations.
Current wording
The failure to maintain access to enough cash, readily salable or unencumbered financial assets to meet near-term financial obligations may adversely impact business relations and creditworthiness.
Previous wording
The Company's liquidity could be affected by a broad market illiquidity event, default by significant market participant, inability to sell assets, inability to access bank accounts, inability to access capital and credit markets, concentration of CAT events, or unforeseen capital needs. A failure to have sufficient cashflow to meet obligations may adversely affect business relations and the creditworthiness of the Company.
Current wording
The Company's liquidity could be affected by a broad market illiquidity event, default by significant market participant, inability to sell assets, inability to access bank accounts, inability to access capital and credit markets, concentration of catastrophe events or unforeseen capital needs. A failure to have sufficient cashflow to meet obligations may adversely affect business relations and the creditworthiness of the Company.
Previous wording
We conduct business in a variety of non-U.S. currencies, principally the Euro, the British pound, and the Canadian dollar. Assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses denominated in foreign currencies are exposed to changes in currency exchange rates. Our reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, and exchange rate fluctuations, especially relative to the U.S. dollar, may materially impact our results and financial position. In 2023, we wrote approximately 27.8% of our coverages in non-U.S.
Current wording
We conduct business in a variety of non-U.S. currencies, principally the Euro, the British pound and the Canadian dollar. Assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses denominated in foreign currencies are exposed to changes in currency exchange rates. Our reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, and exchange rate fluctuations, especially relative to the U.S. dollar, may materially impact our results and financial position. In 2024, we wrote approximately 29.1% of our coverages in non-U.S.
Previous wording
currencies; as of December 31, 2023, we maintained approximately 20.9% of our investment portfolio in investments denominated in non-U.S. currencies.
Current wording
currencies; as of December 31, 2024, we maintained approximately 22.7% of our investment portfolio in investments denominated in non-U.S. currencies.
Previous wording
Our success has been, and will continue to be, dependent on our ability to retain the services of our existing key executives and other key employees, and to attract and retain additional qualified personnel in the future. The loss of the services of any key executive officer or the inability to hire and retain other highly qualified personnel in the future, particularly those experienced in the property and casualty industry, could adversely affect our ability to conduct business.
Current wording
Our success has been, and will continue to be, dependent on our ability to retain the services of our existing key executives and other key employees, and to attract and retain additional qualified personnel in the future. The loss of the services of any key executive officer, the failure to successfully effectuate a permanent leadership transition or the inability to hire and retain other highly qualified personnel in the future, particularly those experienced in the property and casualty industry, could adversely affect our ability to conduct business. Changes to or turnover among senior management or key executives could also disrupt the Company’s strategic focus, operational capabilities and may impede our ability to act quickly and efficiently in executing our business strategy.
Previous wording
We are dependent upon our information technology platform, including our processing systems, data and electronic transmissions in our business operations. Security breaches and other cyber threats could expose us to the loss or misuse of our technology systems or information, litigation and potential liability. In addition, cyber incidents that impact the availability, reliability, speed, accuracy or other proper functioning of these systems could have a significant negative impact on our operations and possibly our results. An incident could also result in a violation of applicable privacy and other laws, damage our reputation, cause a loss of customers or give rise to monetary fines and other penalties, which could be significant. We are not aware of a cybersecurity incident that materially affected the Company, including its business strategy, results of operations or financial condition.
Current wording
Cybersecurity threats and incidents have increased in recent years, heightening related risks. We are dependent upon our information technology platform, including our processing systems, data and electronic transmissions in our business operations. Security breaches and other cyber threats, including those at third parties that have our information, could expose us to the loss or misuse of our technology systems or information, litigation and potential liability. In addition, cyber incidents that impact the confidentiality, integrity, availability, authenticity or other proper functioning of these systems could have a significant negative impact on our operations and possibly our financial results. An incident could also result in a violation of applicable privacy and other laws, damage our reputation, cause a loss of customers, result in regulatory action or give rise to monetary fines and other penalties, which could be significant, and ultimately have a material adverse effect on our business or operations. The cybersecurity regulatory environment is evolving, in particular with respect to emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, and it is likely that the costs of complying with new or developing regulatory requirements will increase. We are not aware of a cybersecurity incident that materially affected the Company, including its business strategy, results of operations or financial condition.
Previous wording
Across our global business centers, there is risk that our operations, systems or data, or those of third parties on whom we rely, may be disrupted. We may experience a disruption in business continuity as a result of pandemic and public health crises, geopolitical risks including armed conflict and civil unrest, terrorist events, natural disasters, cyber-attacks affecting internet and cloud services. All ultimately result in workforce unavailability among others.
Current wording
Across our global business centers, there is risk that our operations, systems or data, or those of third parties on whom we rely, may be disrupted. We may experience a disruption in business continuity as a result of pandemic and public health crises, geopolitical risks including armed conflict and civil unrest, terrorist events, natural disasters, cyber-attacks affecting technology services, as well as governmental, business and societal responses to such events, such as restrictions on public gatherings, sanctions, trade restrictions, increased unemployment and supply chain disruptions. All such events may ultimately result in workforce unavailability among other operational impacts.
Previous wording
According to S&P, Everest ranks among the top ten global property and casualty reinsurance groups, where more than two-thirds of the market share is concentrated. The worldwide net premium written by the Top 40 global reinsurance groups for both life and non-life business was estimated to be $306 billion in 2022 according to data compiled by S&P. In addition to existing competitors, the entry of alternative capital market products and new company formations provide additional sources of reinsurance and insurance capacity, which could reduce our market share.
Current wording
According to S&P, Everest ranks among the top ten global property and casualty reinsurance groups. The worldwide net premium written by the Top 40 global reinsurance groups for both life and non-life business was estimated to be $318 billion in 2023 according to data compiled by S&P. In addition to existing competitors, the entry of alternative capital market products and new company formations provide additional sources of reinsurance and insurance capacity, which could reduce our market share.
Previous wording
As of December 31, 2023, Everest Re Advisors, Ltd. (Bermuda) owned 9,719,971 or 18.3% of the outstanding common shares of Group. Under Group’s bye-laws, the total voting power of any shareholder owning more than 9.9% of the common shares is reduced to 9.9% of the total voting power of the common shares. Nevertheless, Everest Re Advisors, Ltd., which is controlled by Group, has the ability to vote 9.9% of the total voting power of Group’s common shares.
Current wording
As of December 31, 2024, Everest Re Advisors, Ltd. (Bermuda) owned 9,719,971 or 18.5% of the outstanding common shares of Group. Under Group’s bye-laws, the total voting power of any shareholder owning more than 9.9% of the common shares is reduced to 9.9% of the total voting power of the common shares. Nevertheless, Everest Re Advisors, Ltd., which is controlled by Group, has the ability to vote 9.9% of the total voting power of Group’s common shares.
Previous wording
i.)any person that is not an investment company beneficially owns more than 5.0% of any class of the issued and outstanding share capital of Group,
Current wording
i.)any person that is not an investment company beneficially owns more than 5.0% of any class of the issued and outstanding share capital of Group, ii.)any person holds controlled shares in excess of 9.9% of any class of the issued and outstanding share capital of Group, or
Previous wording
The Board has indicated that it will apply these bye-law provisions in such manner that “passive institutional investors” will be treated similarly to investment companies. For this purpose, “passive institutional investors” include all persons who are eligible, pursuant to Rule 13d-1(b)(1) under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, (“the Exchange Act”) to file a short-form statement on Schedule 13G, other than an insurance company or any parent holding company or control person of an insurance company.
Current wording
The Board has indicated that it will apply these bye-law provisions in such manner that “passive institutional investors” will be treated similarly to investment companies. For this purpose, “passive institutional investors” include all persons who are eligible, pursuant to Rule 13d-1(b)(1) under the Exchange Act to file a short-form statement on Schedule 13G, other than an insurance company or any parent holding company or control person of an insurance company.
Previous wording
As a result of the previous dislocation of the financial markets, Congress and the previous administration in the United States implemented changes in the way the financial services industry is regulated. Some of these changes are also impacting the insurance industry. For example, the U.S. Treasury established the Federal Insurance Office with the authority to monitor all aspects of the insurance sector, monitor the extent to which traditionally underserved communities and consumers have access to affordable non-health insurance products, to represent the United States on prudential aspects of international insurance matters, to assist with administration of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program and to advise on important national and international insurance matters. In addition, several European regulatory bodies are in process of updating existing regulations or developing new capital adequacy directives for insurers and reinsurers. The future impact of such initiatives or new initiatives from the current governmental authorities, if any, on our operation, net income (loss) or financial condition cannot be determined at this time.
Current wording
As a result of the previous dislocation of the financial markets, the U.S. government implemented changes in the way the financial services industry is regulated. Some of these changes are also impacting the insurance industry. For example, the U.S. Treasury established the Federal Insurance Office with the authority to monitor all aspects of the insurance sector, monitor the extent to which traditionally underserved communities and consumers have access to affordable non-health insurance products, to represent the United States on prudential aspects of international insurance matters, to assist with administration of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program and to advise on important national and international insurance matters. In addition, several European regulatory bodies are in the process of updating existing regulations or developing new capital adequacy directives for insurers and reinsurers. The future impact of such initiatives or new initiatives from the current governmental authorities, if any, on our operation, net income (loss) or financial condition cannot be determined at this time.
Previous wording
Bermuda Re does not intend to be licensed or admitted as an insurer or reinsurer in any U.S. jurisdiction. Under current law, Bermuda Re generally will be permitted to reinsure U.S. risks from its office in Bermuda without obtaining those licenses. However, the insurance and reinsurance regulatory framework is subject to periodic legislative review and revision. In the past, there have been congressional and other initiatives in the United States regarding increased supervision and regulation of the insurance industry, including proposals to supervise and regulate reinsurers domiciled outside the United States. If Bermuda Re were to become subject to any insurance laws of the United States or any U.S. state at any time in the future, it might be required to post deposits or maintain minimum surplus levels and might be prohibited from engaging in lines of business or from writing some types of policies. Complying with those laws could have a material adverse effect on our ability to conduct business in Bermuda and international markets.
Current wording
Bermuda Re does not intend to be licensed or admitted as an insurer or reinsurer in any U.S. jurisdiction. Under current law, Bermuda Re generally will be permitted to reinsure U.S. risks from its office in Bermuda without obtaining those licenses. However, the insurance and reinsurance regulatory framework is subject to periodic legislative review and revision. In the past, there have been congressional and other initiatives in the United States regarding increased supervision and regulation of the insurance industry, including proposals to supervise and regulate reinsurers domiciled outside the United States. If Bermuda Re were to become subject to any insurance laws of the United States or any U.S. state at any time in the future, it might be required to post deposits or maintain minimum surplus levels and might be prohibited from engaging in lines of business or from writing certain types of policies. Complying with those laws could have a material adverse effect on our ability to conduct business in Bermuda and international markets.
Previous wording
As Bermuda Re’s business develops, it will monitor the need to obtain licenses in jurisdictions other than Bermuda and the UK, where it has an authorized branch, in order to comply with applicable law or to be able to engage in additional insurance-related activities. In addition, Bermuda Re may be at a competitive disadvantage in jurisdictions where it is not licensed or does not enjoy an exemption from licensing relative to competitors that are so licensed or exempt from licensing. Bermuda Re may not be able to obtain any additional licenses that it determines are necessary or desirable. Furthermore, the process of obtaining those licenses is often costly and may take a long time.
Current wording
As Bermuda Re’s business develops, it will monitor the need to obtain licenses in jurisdictions other than Bermuda and the U.K., where it has an authorized branch, in order to comply with applicable law or to be able to engage in additional insurance-related activities. In addition, Bermuda Re may be at a competitive disadvantage in jurisdictions where it is not licensed or does not enjoy an exemption from licensing relative to competitors that are so licensed or exempt from licensing. Bermuda Re may not be able to obtain any additional licenses that it determines are necessary or desirable. Furthermore, the process of obtaining those licenses is often costly and may take a long time.
Previous wording
Regulatory and legislative developments related to cybersecurity could have an adverse impact on our business.
Current wording
Regulatory and legislative developments related to cybersecurity, privacy, data protection and artificial intelligence could have an adverse impact on our business.
Previous wording
In October 2017, the NAIC adopted the Insurance Data Security Model Law, which was intended to establish the standards for data security and for the investigation and notification of data breaches applicable to insurance licensees in states adopting such law, requiring insurers, and other entities required to be licensed under state insurance laws to comply with certain requirements, such as developing and maintaining a written information security program, conducting risk assessments and overseeing the data security practices of third-party vendors. The Insurance Data Security Model Law has now adopted in 23 states. In addition, certain state insurance regulators are developing or have developed their own regulations that may impose additional regulatory requirements relating to cybersecurity on insurance and reinsurance companies. For example, the New York State Department of Financial Services has an applicable regulation pertaining to cybersecurity for all banking and insurance entities under its jurisdiction, effective as of March 1, 2017 and amended on November 1, 2023. The SEC has also adopted new rules effective September 5, 2023 to enhance and standardize disclosures regarding cybersecurity risk management, strategy, governance and incidents. We cannot predict the impact these laws and regulations will have on our business, financial condition or results of operations, but our insurance and reinsurance companies could incur additional costs resulting from compliance with such laws and regulations.
Current wording
In October 2017, the NAIC adopted the Insurance Data Security Model Law (“IDSML”), which was intended to establish the standards for data security and for the investigation and notification of data breaches applicable to insurance licensees in states adopting such law. The IDSML requires insurers, and other entities required to be licensed under state insurance laws, to comply with certain requirements, such as developing and maintaining a written information security program, conducting risk assessments and overseeing the data security practices of third-party vendors. The IDSML has now been adopted in 23 states. In addition, certain state insurance regulators are developing or have developed their own regulations that may impose additional regulatory requirements relating to cybersecurity on insurance and reinsurance companies. For example, the New York State Department of Financial Services has an applicable regulation pertaining to cybersecurity for all banking and insurance entities under its jurisdiction, effective as of March 1, 2017 and amended on November 1, 2023. Regulation of cybersecurity, privacy and data protection, operational resiliency and artificial intelligence has also developed globally. We cannot predict the impact these laws and regulations will have on our business, financial condition or results of operations, but our insurance and reinsurance companies could incur additional costs resulting from compliance with such laws and regulations.
Previous wording
The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (“OECD”) and its member countries which includes the United States, have been focusing for an extended period on issues related to the taxation of multinational corporations, such as the comprehensive plan set forth by the OECD to create an agreed set of international tax rules for preventing base erosion and profit shifting. Recently they agreed upon a broad framework for overhauling the taxation of multinational corporations that includes, among other things, profit reallocation rules and a 15% global minimum corporate income tax rate. These proposals, if implemented, could have an impact on net income and effective tax rate. The Company may be subject to additional income taxes, which would reduce our net income.
Current wording
The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (“OECD”) and its member countries, including the United States, had been focusing for an extended period on issues related to the taxation of multinational corporations, such as the comprehensive plan set forth by the OECD to create an agreed set of international tax rules for preventing base erosion and profit shifting. The OECD has now agreed upon a broad framework for overhauling the taxation of multinational corporations that includes, among other things, profit reallocation rules (Pillar One) and a 15% global minimum corporate income tax rate (Pillar Two). The Pillar Two model rules have been enacted in several of the jurisdictions in which the Company and its subsidiaries operate, thus, the Company or its subsidiaries are liable to pay a top-up tax for any deficiency between the minimum tax rate of 15% and the effective tax rate per jurisdiction.
Previous wording
The 2017 TCJA addressed what some members of Congress had expressed concern about for several years, which was U.S. corporations moving their place of incorporation to low-tax jurisdictions to obtain a competitive advantage over domestic corporations that are subject to the U.S. corporate income tax rate of 21%. Specifically, it addressed their concern over a perceived competitive advantage that foreign-controlled insurers and reinsurers may have had over U.S. controlled insurers and reinsurers resulting from the purchase of reinsurance by U.S. insurers from affiliates operating in some foreign jurisdictions, including Bermuda. Such affiliated reinsurance transactions may subject the U.S. ceding companies to a Base Erosion and Anti-abuse Tax (“BEAT”) of 10% from 2019 to 2025 and 12.5% thereafter which may exceed its regular income tax. In addition, new legislation as well as proposed and final regulations may further limit the ability of the Company to execute alternative capital balancing transactions with unrelated parties. This would further impact our net income and effective tax rate.
Current wording
The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“TCJA”) was adopted to address incorporation by U.S. corporations in low-tax jurisdictions to obtain a competitive advantage over domestic corporations that are subject to the U.S. corporate income tax rate of 21%. Specifically, the TCJA addressed concern over a perceived competitive advantage that foreign-controlled insurers and reinsurers may have had over U.S. controlled insurers and reinsurers, resulting from the purchase of reinsurance by U.S. insurers from affiliates operating in certain foreign jurisdictions, including Bermuda. Such affiliated reinsurance transactions may subject the U.S. ceding companies to a Base Erosion and Anti-abuse Tax of 10% from 2019 to 2024 and 12.5% thereafter, which may exceed its regular income tax. In addition, new legislation, as well as proposed and final regulations may further limit the ability of the Company to execute alternative capital balancing transactions with unrelated parties. This would further impact our net income and effective tax rate.
Previous wording
On August 16, 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act (“IRA”) was enacted. We have evaluated the tax provisions of the IRA, the most significant of which are the corporate alternative minimum tax and the share repurchase excise tax and do not expect the legislation to have a material impact on our results of operations.
Current wording
On August 16, 2022, the IRA was enacted. We have evaluated the tax provisions of the IRA, the most significant of which are the corporate alternative minimum tax and the share repurchase excise tax and do not expect the legislation to have a material impact on our results of operations.
Previous wording
On December 27, 2023, the Government of Bermuda enacted the Corporate Income Tax Act 2023, which will apply a 15% corporate income tax to certain Bermuda businesses in fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2025. The act includes a provision referred to as “The Economic Transition Adjustment”, which is intended to provide a fair and equitable transition into the tax regime, and results in a deferred tax benefit for the Company.
Current wording
On December 27, 2023, the Government of Bermuda enacted the Corporate Income Tax Act 2023 (“The 2023 Act”), which will apply a 15% corporate income tax to certain Bermuda businesses in fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2025. The 2023 Act includes a provision referred to as “The Economic Transition Adjustment” (the “ETA”), which is intended to provide a fair and equitable transition into the new tax regime, and results in a deferred tax benefit for the Company. However, on January 15, 2025, the OECD issued Guidance related to “deferred tax assets arising from tax benefits provided by General Government” whereby it has restricted the utilization of those deferred tax benefits against the computation of its Pillar Two Global Minimum Taxes to approximately 20% of the originally calculated amounts and only for a grace period of two years through 2026. If the Bermuda Ministry of Finance amends The 2023 Act in response to this Guidance, the exact impact of any such amendments is uncertain but there is a risk that it results in a reduction in the Company's Deferred Tax Assets.
Previous wording
Bermuda Re. The income of Bermuda Re is a sizable portion of our worldwide income from operations. We have established guidelines for the conduct of our operations that are designed to ensure that Bermuda Re is not engaged in the conduct of a trade or business in the U.S. Based on its compliance with those guidelines, we believe that Bermuda Re should not be required to pay U.S. corporate income tax, other than withholding tax on U.S. source dividend income. However, if the IRS were to successfully assert that Bermuda Re was engaged in a U.S. trade or business, Bermuda Re would be required to pay U.S. corporate income tax on all its income and possibly also the U.S. branch profits tax. However, if the IRS were to successfully assert that Bermuda Re was engaged in a U.S. trade or business, we believe the U.S.-Bermuda tax treaty would preclude the IRS from taxing Bermuda Re’s income except to the extent that its income was attributable to a U.S. permanent establishment maintained by Bermuda Re. We do not believe that Bermuda Re has a permanent establishment in the U.S. If the IRS were to successfully assert that Bermuda Re did have income attributable to a permanent establishment in the U.S., Bermuda Re would be subject to U.S. tax only on that income. This would reduce our net income.
Current wording
Bermuda Re. The income of Bermuda Re is a sizable portion of our worldwide income from operations. We have established guidelines for the conduct of our operations that are designed to ensure that Bermuda Re is not engaged in the conduct of a trade or business in the U.S. Based on its compliance with those guidelines, we believe that Bermuda Re should not be required to pay U.S. corporate income tax, other than withholding tax on U.S. source dividend income. However, if the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) were to successfully assert that Bermuda Re was engaged in a U.S. trade or business, Bermuda Re would be required to pay U.S. corporate income tax on all its income and possibly also the U.S. branch profits tax. However, if the IRS were to successfully assert that Bermuda Re was engaged in a U.S. trade or business, we believe the U.S.-Bermuda tax treaty would preclude the IRS from taxing Bermuda Re’s income except to the extent that its income was attributable to a U.S. permanent establishment maintained by Bermuda Re. We do not believe that Bermuda Re has a permanent establishment in the U.S. If the IRS were to successfully assert that Bermuda Re did have income attributable to a permanent establishment in the U.S., Bermuda Re would be subject to U.S. tax only on that income. This would reduce our net income.
Previous wording
Group. We conduct our operations in a manner designed to minimize our U.S. tax exposures. Based on our compliance with guidelines designed to ensure that we generate only immaterial amounts, if any, of income that is subject to the U.S. taxing jurisdiction, we believe that we should be required to pay only immaterial amounts, if any, of U.S. corporate income tax, other than withholding tax on U.S. source dividend income. However, if the IRS successfully asserted that we had material amounts of income that was subject to the U.S. taxing jurisdiction, we would be required to pay U.S. corporate income tax on that income, and possibly the U.S. branch profits tax. The imposition of such tax would reduce our net income.
Current wording
Group. We conduct our operations in a manner designed to minimize our U.S. tax exposures. Based on our compliance with guidelines designed to ensure that we generate only immaterial amounts, if any, of income that is subject to the U.S. taxing jurisdiction, we believe that we should be required to pay only immaterial amounts, if any, of U.S. corporate income tax, other than withholding tax on U.S. source dividend income. However, if the IRS successfully asserted that we had material amounts of income that were subject to the U.S. taxing jurisdiction, we would be required to pay U.S. corporate income tax on that income, and possibly the U.S. branch profits tax. The imposition of such tax would reduce our net income.
Previous wording
Bermuda Re and Group. If Bermuda Re became subject to U.S. income tax on its income, or if Group became subject to income tax, our income could also be subject to U.S. branch profits tax. In that event, Group and Bermuda Re would be subject to taxation at a higher combined effective rate than if they were organized as U.S. corporations. The combined effect of the 21% U.S. corporate income tax rate and the 30% branch profits tax rate is a net tax rate of 44.7%. The imposition of these taxes would reduce out net income.
Current wording
Bermuda Re and Group. If Bermuda Re became subject to U.S. income tax on its income, or if Group became subject to U.S. income tax, our income could also be subject to U.S. branch profits tax. In that event, Group and Bermuda Re would be subject to taxation at a higher combined effective rate than if they were organized as U.S. corporations. The combined effect of the 21% U.S. corporate income tax rate and the 30% branch profits tax rate is a net tax rate of 44.7%. The imposition of these taxes would reduce our net income.
Previous wording
Reinsurance and insurance premiums paid to Bermuda Re with respect to risks located in the United States are subject to a U.S. federal excise tax of one percent. In addition, Bermuda Re is subject to federal excise tax on reinsurance and insurance premiums with respect to risks located in the United States. In addition, Bermuda Re is subject to withholding tax on dividend income from U.S. sources. These taxes could increase, and other taxes could be imposed in the future on Bermuda Re’s business, which would reduce our net income.
Current wording
Reinsurance and insurance premiums paid to Bermuda Re with respect to risks located in the United States are subject to a U.S. federal excise tax of one percent. In addition, Bermuda Re is subject to withholding tax on dividend income from U.S. sources. These taxes could increase, and other taxes could be imposed in the future on Bermuda Re’s business, which would reduce our net income.
Previous wording
In January 2022, Treasury and the IRS released proposed regulations regarding the determination and inclusion of related-person insurance income (“RPII”). The regulations, if finalized without modifications, could cause RPII to be attributable to the Company’s U.S. shareholders prospectively and therefore would incur additional income tax. The imposition of such tax could reduce our U.S. shareholders return on investment in the Company. Our U.S. shareholders pre-tax income and tax liabilities might be increased, reducing their net income.
Current wording
In January 2022, the U.S. Treasury and the IRS released proposed regulations regarding the determination and inclusion of related-person insurance income (“RPII”). The regulations, if finalized without modifications, could cause RPII to be attributable to the Company’s U.S. shareholders prospectively and therefore would incur additional income tax. The imposition of such tax could reduce our U.S. shareholders return on investment in the Company. Our U.S. shareholders pre-tax income and tax liabilities might be increased, reducing their net income.
Rearranged current paragraphs (1)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
During the past five calendar years, the reserve refinement process resulted in a decrease to our pre-tax net income in 2024 and 2020 and resulted in an increase to our pre-tax net income in 2023, 2022 and 2021:
Rearranged previous paragraphs (1)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
ii.)any person holds controlled shares in excess of 9.9% of any class of the issued and outstanding share capital of Group, or